Reward's Boxers

• Stud Fertility
• Vitamin Supplements
• Bitch Problems
• Herbal Compounds

• Infections during Pregnancy
• Bladder Infections
• Urinary Incontinence
• Kidney & Liver Failure

• OCD
• Heart Conditions
• Return to Home
• Return to Natural Rearing Page

Holistic Medicine encompasses some of the oldest forms of medicine in the world i.e. herbs; homeopathy; glandulars; acupuncture etc. These forms of medicine are practiced predominately worldwide and exceed the use of conventional or western medicine as we know it here in North America. Science is now starting to catch up and prove the validity of many so called folk remedies. The goal is to help the body truly heal itself. Holistic therapies give us the option of choosing alternatives that can be given to help the body to heal the underlying condition instead of masking the symptoms as in most conventional drug therapy.

Of course veterinary advice should always be sought in the case of serious illness and injury.

We are on the forefront of a very exciting era. The reawakening of true healing. Accepting and utilizing methods from around the world all with one goal in mind--to help the body heal itself. Do no harm! This is the time to learn and discover. We need to think for ourselves and our animals will only benefit from it!

There are many such situations where holistic therapies have proven more effective, especially in cases where conventional treatments offer nothing or no hope. Breeders in particular face a number of challenges that the average pet owner is unlikely to encounter. Here are a few more examples.

Prostate Problems
Many breeding and fertility problems can be solved with the use of natural remedies. Owners of stud dogs that suffer from chronic or acute prostate problems are usually advised to have the dog neutered. Many valuable breeding lines have been lost unnecessarily. To help the prostate we have found that using two homeopathic remedies called Inflammation and Prostate (BHI) combined with a glandular nutritional supplement called Prostate Complex gives excellent results. The Prostate Complex also contains Saw Palmetto, which is well studied in helping prostate health. With these remedies urination and sperm production often returns to normal.

Fertility
Natural treatment of dogs with low or no sperm counts has also shown great results. (Of course an underlying condition of thyroid disorder or infection should be properly ruled out). In many instances there is no specific diagnosis given to these dogs (which can include even the very young). To help we have used a glandular called Symplex M which gives nutritional support to the male reproductive system. Also two amino acids are given called L’Arginine and L’Carnitine (again both are well studied and shown to increase sperm production).

Vitamin Supplements
A good multiple vitamin is also given called Spectra. This is a very high quality vitamin that is sold through physicians. (My whole family takes this routinely and it is amazing the difference in our energy and overall well being.) The dog vitamins on the market are simply not potent enough to have any therapeutic value, even for everyday health. These supplements can also be used to enhance sperm production prior to collections for freezing or artificial inseminations.

The Bitch
Bitches that have irregular cycles or have difficulty in conceiving can be greatly helped by giving a glandular called Symplex F and a homeopathic called Hormeel. These help the body regulate natural hormonal imbalances. For bitches whose seasons are overdue, two homeopathics would be used with the Symplex F. One is called Sepia and the other Pituitary. This combination will not bring bitches falsely into season but again helps to regulate their cycle and they come into a good breedable season relatively quickly. Here again use of the Spectra vitamin is important, as it will provide the extra nutrients such as properly balanced Folic Acid, amino acids, etc. When breeding, to ensure a good gestation and easy labor, breeders have been relying on a homeopathic remedy called Pregnancy formula and an herbal mixture called NR Birth Aid. The NR product is imported from England and contains a proportionate blend of well-known female herbs including, wild raspberry leaves, dandelion leaves, wild hawthorn, elder, and dill. This combination has led to easy births and healthy pups.

For bitches with a history of re-sorption, early labor, or simply losing pups after birth (ruling out any thyroid disorder) two other homeopathic remedies should strongly be considered along with the remedies mentioned previously. Viburnam Opulis 30c and Fading Puppy Remedy. When the Fading Puppy Remedy is given during pregnancy we see not only improvement in the vigor of the pups but also the weights of the pups in the litter tend to be more even. This remedy is wonderful for prevention. I give it to pups twice daily until they are approx. 3 weeks. If there is a puppy not doing well, losing weight, or just won’t nurse, the remedy helps them fight and gets them going again. It has saved countless pups who otherwise would have been lost needlessly. (It of course can not save pups with congenital defects).

It is extremely important to help the immune system during pregnancy. When a bitch is bred, her immune function automatically down regulates in order to accept the fetus. Thus making her more susceptible to infections.

Herbal Compounds
I rely on NR Herbal Compounds. They have been used for decades with good success. These contain such pungent herbs as Sage, Thyme, Garlic, Wormwood, and Eucalyptus. When given to lactating bitches the herbal properties pass through the milk and helps the puppies' immune functions too. (Generally, a nice side effect seems to be worm free pups!) I give these as a routine supplement to all my dogs, 5 days a week to ensure good health.

Infections During Pregnancy
Acute or chronic infections can be troublesome at anytime and antibiotics are frequently and easily over prescribed. Many times, (i.e. during pregnancy) an alternative to antibiotics would be preferable. Mastitis is a good example. With nursing pups most breeders cringe at the thought of having to put the bitch on strong antibiotics. We have successfully treated mastitis without the use of antibiotics especially when the owner observes the condition at an early stage. The homeopathics we use are Bryaconeel, Traumeel, Echinacea Comp. Forte, and Mastitis remedy. These are given every hour until symptoms abate. Then, they are given 3-4 times daily until pups are weaned. Adjunct therapy would be Immuplex (glandular) and Colloidal Silver, and oligo trace element. (Note one has to be extremely careful of the quality and strength of this remedy. Stronger strength is not better and used long term could cause harm.)

There are many good and safe natural therapies that can be given to help the body fight off and heal the infection. Each case needs to be treated individually of course, but some of my favorites are:

• Prolive (this is made from an olive leaf extract that has scientifically been proven to kill many bacteria as well as viral and fungal strains)
• Immuplex (a glandular to support the thymus and spleen)
• Isatis (a chinese herbal formula for infections).

Bladder Infections
A very common problem at any time that can turn into a serious chronic condition is a bladder infection. It is quite usual after a course of antibiotics, that a bladder infection returns and a stronger antibiotic must be found or a combination of them must be used. This can lead to bacteria that become resistant to antibiotics, and may leave the animal in a weakened state. I have found that using homeopathics called Solidago Comp. (a specific remedy for bladder and kidney irritations) and Echinacea Comp Forte (a comprehensive remedy to help the body fight a variety of infections, including staph. and strep. bacteria. This should not be confused with the simple herbal form of echinacea).

Albaplex is also given (a glandular for bladder infections). Cran caps (a high potency cranberry concentrate) have been well studied for its effectiveness in bladder infections. The concentrate form is much more effective and certainly easier to administer to the animals. These remedies would be given in combination until the infection had cleared (i.e. 3 weeks). They truly help the body clear itself of the bacteria. If in fact you do have an animal that is prone to reoccurrence of the infection (this can be a weak point of the body’s immune function) then I have found that by continuing the Cran Caps and giving a Chinese herbal formula called Lindera helps the body’s ph levels and immune function to prevent reoccurrence of any infection. For those that are prone to producing bladder stones or gravel, Couch Grass is a good herb to give to aid in the dissolving of calculi or gravel. In addition a Chinese herb called Lysimachia is very helpful for treatment as well as for prevention of stones. Vitamin B6 should also strongly be considered. Many studies show it has good effect in preventing stone production.

Urinary Incontinence
is another common problem in spayed bitches. Unfortunately we are seeing this occur at extremely young ages. The conventional course of treatment can contribute to many side effects, especially when given on a long-term basis. There is a homeopathic remedy that was specifically formulated for this problem called Pro V Urinary Incontinence. When combined with a glandular nutritional supplement called Ovarian Complex, it gives excellent results in the majority of cases. It can be used long term if needed with complete safety. For those few cases that may not respond to these remedies I have found the homeopathic Solidago Comp. usually does the trick.

Kidney and Liver Failure
Unfortunately too many animals end up with kidney or liver failure problems. This can be the result of a variety of reasons including the overuse of drug therapies, infections and aging. Conventionally speaking there is little western medicine can do other than buy a little time with fluid therapy or drugs. Holistic medicine should certainly be considered here as we have taken countless "hopeless" cases and have turned them around so that they live long and healthy lives until it is their normal time to go. Of course each case is individual and we determine what is needed specifically from a metabolic nutritional analysis of the bloodwork. From there a protocol of glandulars, homeopathics and herbs are given.

The majority of cases though need the following:

• Renatrophin and Eco Liver (Kidney and Liver support)
• Homeopathics called Hepar Comp, Solidago Comp, and Ren Suis
• Herbals such as Rentone for kidneys or Herbal Hepatox for liver.

OCD, (basically a bone chip or a piece of ossified cartilage that has come loose to cause irritation and lameness) is another common condition that the only conventional course of treatment is surgery, with usually varied results of success depending on the location. OCD has been responding with excellent results to natural therapy! The holistic treatment consists of the following: Bone Liquescence and Traumeel (homeopathics); Arth 9 (a glucosamine/herbal formula); The Winnah (Selenium and vitamin E formula); and vitamin C. When using the OCD protocol within approximately two months new x-rays will likely reveal that there is no longer the need for surgery!

Heart conditions also respond well with holistic care, alone or as an adjunct to conventional drug treatment. One of the basic items used is Coenzyme Q 10. This has been very well studied and shown to improve energy utilization while at the same time strengthening the heart. It is helpful with cholesterol levels too. For breeds that are prone to heart diseases certainly recommend this as a daily supplement for prevention. Cardio Complex (a glandular herbal formula that contains hawthorne) and L’ Carnitine (an amino acid) are also very important to give for specific support to the cardiovascular system.

Natural Therapies for the 21st Century Breeder

By Marina Zacharias
Ambricon Enterprises

• Remedies for Pain
• Panosteitis
• Antioxident Enzymes

• Show Dogs
• Vaccinations
• Maintaining a Healthy Immune System

• Natural Rearing Newsletter
• Return to Home
• Return to Natural Rearing Page

Homeopathy and Herbs, along with other forms of complementary medicine, including acupuncture; massage; nutritional glandular therapy, etc. are all active forms of medicine. They reinforce the body’s own healing mechanisms and do not suppress them the way many of the chemical drugs, antibiotics and cortisone do. The individual is not deprived of his ability to help and heal himself. The result is true healing and not simply treatment (suppression) of individual symptoms. Today more information regarding holistic therapies is surfacing in the mainstream. Large drug companies and regulatory agencies can no longer hold back the wave of information that has been kept a “secret” for generations. Our animals can directly benefit from many forms of holistic care. This is especially true in chronic cases in where often times orthodox medicine fails. Here are but a few more proven remedies that can help us maintain the health of our animals safely and naturally, free from harmful side effects.. Of course, veterinary advise should always be sought in the case of serious illness or injury.

Remedies for Pain
Homeopathic combinations are simple to use and allow you to have remedies on hand for a variety of reasons. They are especially useful for acute conditions. My favorites are BHI and Heel ( German formulations.) For acute or chronic pain due to simple arthritis, or rheumatism, there are many natural remedies that prove to give effective relief, without the unwanted side effects of the steroid treatment that is so prevalent today. The remedies BHI Arthritis, BHI Bone and Traumeel can be used with excellent results for the inflammatory pains caused by arthritic conditions. Pain related to hip dysplasia or back problems can be given BHI Back and Traumeel. For new traumas BHI Injury can also be used. These remedies alone have helped dogs who were down in the hindquarters from disc problems (where surgery was not chosen) get on their feet and enjoy normal healthy lives. Other animals do well on a homeopathic/glandular combination called Connective Tissue Liquescence. This remedy, especially when combined with a glandular called Collagen Complex, is particularly good for the more chronic condition. Collagen Complex is also helpful for weak ears, and prevention of slipped stifles. Another useful product for hip or joint pain is an extract from a green sea mussel called Perna. The Perna mussel is a marine bivalve mollusk that serves as a lubricant for the joints when digested by the body., thereby decreasing pain and inflammation. For both arthritis and hip or back conditions additional vitamins E , C and selenium should also be strongly considered. Vitamin E and Selenium are essential in the development and maintenance of muscle tissue, which along with collagen, maintain joint stability. The best source for this is a product called “The Winnah.” This is a favorite of many holistic vets as it contains food sources of the vitamins which are easily absorbed and used by the animals. A nice side effect of this formula is that it can help to clear up many skin problems at the same time. Herbs can also be of great benefit. NR Seaweed Mineral Food, a Juliette de Bairacli Levy formula combining deep sea- kelp, nettles, comfrey and cleavers, when given daily helps prevent joint pain from inflammation. These age old proven herbs are wonderful in any problems related to bones and at the same time help the body with thyroid function, coat growth and reproductive organs. All my dogs get this supplement routinely. Finely chopped fresh parsley leaves can be also be given daily as they help prevent uric acid crystals from building up within the joint tissues. Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery and spinach help to keep the joints more alkaline.

Panosteitis is another problem that many of us face who breed fast growing, larger puppies. I have personally had several Basset puppies afflicted with Pano and I am happy to report that through breeder networking, has come to light a specific herbal blend formulated for this problem. This blend of nine organic herbs really works! On average we see a total disappearance of symptoms within a week or two. No crate rest is necessary. The supplement can then be used until the threat of Pano is gone.

Antioxidant Enzymes can play a significant role in relieving any inflammatory problems. Bodies constantly produce enzymes to protect us from cell damaging substances called free radicals. Excess free radicals come from illness, environmental pollution, poor nutrition, over exertion, aging and even stress. All these factors can create a condition in which the body’s production of enzymes is less than it needs. The result of this imbalance ( enzyme deficiency ) causes cellular damage which is often seen as inflammation, pain and fatigue. A healthy body produces enzymes that are called antioxidant enzymes - Superoxide Dismutase (SOD ), Glutathione Peroxidase (GP), Methionine Reductase (MET), and Catalase (CAT). Their sole purpose is to protect the body’s health by eliminating the free radicals. Eating live foods that are rich in enzymes themselves ( i.e. raw vegetables and spouts), appear to stimulate the body’s production of antioxidants. Unfortunately, today’s modern farming methods and the depletion of soil nutrients, has greatly diminished the nutritional value of the foods we eat. The best way I have found of keeping these enzymes in balance is a product called AOX / PLX. It is truly the most comprehensive potent enzyme product currently available. Any animal with chronic pain; during illness; cancer; stress due to campaigning ; immunity; stud work or simply as a preventative, would greatly benefit from this combination. I have had many reports on old dogs that once again felt like puppies again when given this. I personally have been taking AOX / PLX for close to two years now as a general preventative and have noticed a marked change in my energy levels!

Show Dogs
Stress, hormonal imbalances, nerves and fears all can lead to significant problems when it comes to performance in the ring. Homeopathy and flower essences have given amazing results in overcoming show problems. Through my search for remedies for my own dogs I was fortunate to come across a line of homeopathic combinations called Tridex. These have been specifically formulated for the many problems we face in trying to convince our BIS potential winner to perform with confidence! They have a long term effect on the dog so continual use is not necessary. They in no way act as a drug, but simply allow the body to correct its imbalance. I have heard back from countless breeders on the success of these remedies , which have enabled them to finish their dogs to Championships and beyond ! For dogs that are experiencing ring shyness, sluggishness in the ring, fear of people or just seem to need a lift up in behavior Tridex Standard should be tried. To aid in the desensitization process a remedy called Fear/ Stress is wonderful. This homeopathic remedy also contains flower essences which work on the mental aspects of the animal. Dogs who have fears, tend to be nervous, experience panic, or simply become stressed, will benefit as this remedy can be used as often as needed. For dogs that become over excited and seem uncontrollable in the ring; when they seem to react over any little thing, or when they need to just settle down, Tridex B9 is the remedy. It is also especially useful in many kinds of aggression problems. When dealing with the animal who is likely to try and snap at you, who seems to have a short fuse or is experiencing deeper aggression problems, the homeopathic remedy Aggression should also be used. Again this remedy can be used when needed. For either scenario, if the dog dislikes being touched or handled the Tridex PU200 should be used in conjunction. It is especially needed for the animals who seem to hit that hormonal change around 5 to 18 months old.

Maintaining a Healthy Immune System
Through our great love for dogs, we constantly expose them to risks of infection and viruses, every time we take them to shows, trials, and even the vets office! A main priority must be in maintaining a healthy immune system through a healthy body. There are so many factors that can effect the immune system function; diet; food preservatives, vaccines; stress, toxic side effects of drugs, etc. (This subject alone would take another article!) Many times the first signs of impaired immune function are shown through the extremities or the skin. Unfortunately, when these symptoms are merely suppressed ( i.e. steroids) many times a chronic situation is created. The original disease ultimately gets pushed deeper into the body and in turn manifests itself from within. ( i.e. organ failures) Luckily we have many ways to help the overburdened immune system and I will just touch on a few simple things we can do.

A good place to start is by simply adding fresh vegetables and fruits to the diet. They should be put through the food processor so they can easily be digested. Try a variety such as carrots, broccoli, sweet potato; cauliflower, squash, apples, raisins etc. Dogs love them! Fresh food is the easiest way for the body to utilize vital anti-oxidants which keep the immune system functioning properly. In addition to fresh food I rely on are herbs for maintaining immunity. In particular NR Herbal Compound tablets and NR Daily Health tablets. Both contain high levels of garlic and other herbs such as sage, wormwood, eucalyptus, couch grass, vegetable charcoal, and more. Vegetable charcoal is very important to the body as it absorbs impurities and toxins from the internal organs. Both formulas are also very antiseptic and internally cleansing to the body thus helping to maintain good function. These particular Juliette de Bairacli Levy formulas have had a long history of effectiveness.

All bodies, of course go through up and down periods in their state of health. When the immune system requires a boost Echinacea is an excellent herb to use. I use it in the homeopathic form rather than the herb form, as it is absorbed instantly and can give better results. I use it especially any time I feel a cold might be coming on. When taken hourly at the first signs of symptoms, the majority of times the virus will be warded off. I can’t remember the last time I had a cold or flu! Often times we find that the immune systems are blocked and give no reaction. This is especially true in chronic disease cases which can often be the result of vaccines or an overuse of drugs. Homeopathic remedies are of great use in helping the body to detoxify from these substances and several can be chosen from depending on the circumstance.

Vaccinations
To detoxify from vaccines a general regimen of two remedies are often used. Thuja 30c and Sulphur 30c. Each is given daily for one week in alteration for a period of two to four weeks. ( i.e. Thuja 30c the first week; Sulphur 30c the second.) To detoxify from drug use the combination Chemotox is good. (More specific remedies can be diagnosed through a holistic vet.) Detoxifying not only allows the body to begin its healing process, but many people have often noticed the marked improvement in temperaments. It is also strongly recommended that any time a vaccine is given, Thuja 30c should be given directly afterwards. This helps the body eliminate the side effects or potential reactions from the shot but in no way antidotes the vaccine itself. Special care needs to be given to bitches that are to be or have been bred. During pregnancy a female’s immune function declines so that the fetus will be accepted by the body. If there is disease in the body that has been previously suppressed ( i.e. through the use of drugs) , this can manifest itself through undeveloped or fetus abnormalities. Many holistic vets also believe there is a strong link to this and fading puppy syndrome. Prevention through diet and herbs are the key. Any bitches that are suspect of immune disfunction, ( i.e. any history of skin problems, allergies, puppy losses, chronic infections, overuse of drugs, etc.) should be given specific immune support to rebuild their state of health. Dr. Jean Dodds also strongly advises not to vaccinate any bitch who is going to be bred while in season or not to vaccinate any animal on the premises during a bitch’s pregnancy. When an animal is vaccinated, the virus in which it was inoculated for, sheds out of the body. Studies show that non vaccinated animals when housed with the recently vaccinated animals, can pick up the shedded virus. This could have devastating results to the fetus of a pregnant bitch with low immunity. There is so much information available on Holistic therapies that often times it is overwhelming and can at first be confusing. There is also a continual barrage of new information from around the world, as new research continues to find many natural therapies for both prevention and cure of common ailments.

Natural Rearing Newsletter
To help establish a network for breeders interested in this method of health care for their animals, I have started to publish the “Natural Rearing Newsletter”. This publication will seek to provide a forum for breeders to share information on what is working and what is not; update you on the latest international news; provide plain factual information on therapies that can be applied to our own animals with the understanding of how or why they work! Holistic Health Care means treating the whole body- not just from head to toe, but inside and out. It also means treating from the full spectrum of medical assistance available. Education is a key factor.

Healthy Breeding with Herbs and Homeopathy

By Marina Zacharias
Ambricon Enterprises

• Irregular Seasons
• Tired Stud Dogs
• Post Partum Care
• Parasites
• Mastitis

• Aiding Milk Production
• Poor Appetite
• Gastric Upsets
• Mastitis
• Aiding Milk Production

• Poor Appetite
• Gastric Upsets
• Return to Home
• Return to Natural Rearing Page

Truly there is no finer sight for animal lovers than to see an alert-eyed, lustrous coated dog racing across a field with great stamina. We rejoice in their health and vigor, and wish them a long, disease-free and contented life. As breeders, this is our hope for every newborn puppy we bring into this world. These precious warm bundles are totally dependent on us for managing their tenuous journey into the healthy well adjusted adult we wish them to be. We all derive such pleasure in the companionship our dogs provide for us, that we must return the favor by providing them with the best health care and management that we can. Our society has been conditioned with quick-fix and band-aid medicine. We know from experience that this often times only gives temporary relief and in fact can generate a rebound effect of symptoms or undesirable side-effects. Complimentary medicine, in particular Homeopathy and Herbs, can play a very large part in the successful rearing of our animals. Homeopathy and Herbs are essentially, natural healing processes, providing remedies to assist the patient to regain health by stimulating the body's natural forces of recovery. They concentrate on treating the patient, rather than the disease.

Homeopathic remedies may be used singularly or in combinations. Combination remedies are simple and easy to use. They provide the less experienced prescriber with an opportunity to apply homeopathy to a broad range of illnesses A very effective, reliable line of homeopathic combinations is called BHI. These German formulations are utilized by veterinarians and physicians throughout the world due to their high success rate and ease of prescribing. I personally have found them to be excellent for my dogs and family. Here are but a few well proven remedies that can assist in the rearing of healthy animals. Of course, veterinary advise should always be sought in cases of serious illness or injury.

Breeding Problems with Bitches
For bitches that do not come in season or the seasons are not normal Dr. Deva Kaur Khalsa recommends the following homeopathic remedies; Sepia 30c-one dose every 10 days for 3 doses Pituitary 30c- one dose in the beginning of the month This combination can bring the majority of bitches into season For bitches who cycle normally but who do not conceive there is a very good European remedy to use called Tridex PU 200. This is given to the bitch approx. 4 to 6 weeks before her next season every other day.

Stud Dog Problems
The Stud Dog who suffers from exhaustion and debility from overuse could benefit well from China 30c , Gelsemium 30c or BHI Enzyme. They can be given three times daily until improvement. The remedy Tridex B9 is very useful in treating hypersexuality in the male.

Post Partum Care
For care of the bitch during and after pregnancy there are specific homeopathic and herbal remedies which are recommended, that I have used with consistently good results. As I have mentioned them in detail in previous articles, I will only list them here: Pregnancy Formula- given weekly ( combines Caulophyllum 30c, Arnica 30x, and Sepia 30c); NR Birth Aid; Fading Puppy Remedy ( a homeopathic complex); Viburnum opulis 30c ( for history of miscarriage.) A special note here should be made about the regular use of Vitamin E. Statistical reports from a random sample of bitches on Vitamin E, show that conception chances at mating, are about 40% better than a random sample of bitches not taking the vitamin. When both partners use it, results are even better. I use a natural form rather than synthetic. It has been recently proven that the synthetic form has a far less absorption rate than natural vitamin E. Herbs can also aid in fertility. Seaweed blended with nettle and grated raw almonds are splendid fertility aids.

Parasites
Any animal, especially those used in breeding must be free of all parasites, internal as well as external. Unfortunately numerous puppies are lost by the use of chemical wormers. There are certainly natural alternatives that are effective and are safe! The very best one I have found which has proven the most effective and simplest is a Chinese Herbal formula called Anti-Parasite Powder. It is effectual for roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms, hookworms, and giardia. It can be safely used on nursing bitches and pups of any age. This natural formula works quickly and best of all eliminates the risks! I once had a dog contract two stubborn varieties of tapeworm. After a short three day course of the Anti-Parasite powder, the one variety was eliminated. I then doubled the dosage and after one treatment the other variety was eliminated. My veterinarian couldn't believe it!

To help prevent internal parasites on young pups and especially to keep immunity high, I give the bitch NR Herbal Compound tablets throughout pregnancy and during nursing. This compound consisting of Garlic, Rue, Sage, Thyme, Eucalyptus, Wormwood and Vegetable Charcoal has many great internal cleansing properties, all which get passed through the milk. This unique compound was formulated by herbalist Juliette de Bairacli Levy. She has been a pioneer in herbal treatments and prevention for all animals with a worldwide following since the 1930's. With continued daily regular use of the compound on all my dogs, they have been free of parasites, fleas and illness! Due to its immunity stimulating abilities, this is truly one compound I would not be without.

Puppies fed any formula can be given Lactobacillus acidophilus daily. This is a must if anti-biotics are being used. Make sure to get the live enzyme from your pharmacist (It needs to be refrigerated. A good brand is "Lactinex".) Or use plain yogurt if you are in a pinch. This will go far in helping to prevent diarrhea in the pups. For yellow diarrhea in pups use the homeopathic remedy Podophyllum 6x or BHI Diarrhea in the formula or orally several times a day until improvement. For general colic conditions, try chamomile tea along with BHI Spasm-Pain and BHI Stomach. Bitches that lose coat while nursing can be given extra lecithin, vitamin E, and B complex vitamins. BHI Hair and Skin can be used daily to promote rapid hair growth. Also give the double normal ration of seaweed.

Special note here should be made about the merits of deep-seaweed. It is without equal as a natural source of iodine. This is highly desirable for pregnant mothers and especially needed during the age of adolescence to ensure the proper development of the reproductive organs. It not only gives dark pigment to eyes, nose and claws, but its true fame is due to the powers to stimulate hair growth. When blended with the herbs cleavers, nettles, comfrey and uva ursi, it acts well as a glandular tonic (particularly for thyroid function), promoting general forwardand stalwart body development, including strong bones. This combination, called NR Seaweed Mineral Food, when used daily for in the in-whelp bitch, has proven to give excellent results in the general improvement of the litter as well as preventing acid or failing milk and streptococcal infection. I have tried many kelps but this is truly the best I have found. The coats on my dogs are not only thick, but are very deep in color as well. I give it daily to all my dogs to ensure they receive the trace elements and minerals they need.

Mastitis
In acute mastitis cases there are many remedies that have proven excellent. The earlier you can catch the first signs of symptoms the faster and more complete homeopathic remedies can cure. In my own experience, I have found that when given at the first signs of symptoms, the mastitis was aborted within the day of treating with homeopathy. For example: Aconite 30c given every 10 minutes for 4 doses in the early stages. This can help reduce anxiety and relieve fever. BHI Inflammation, BHI Injury and Traumeel (oral) can be used as they give excellent results. Apis 30c will also aid in the reduction of swelling. Externally- bathe the glands with an infusion of mint or use dock or elder leaves. The homeopathic ointment Traumeel also can bring good relief.

Milk Production
In cases where a bitch's milk is slow to come in try Urtica urens 30x for one or two doses after birth. This usually gets the milk flow going.(In the lower potencies such as 3x it will help to dry up milk.) There are many foods which help to increase milk production rapidly. Goats milk; grated raw or cooked carrots; oat flakes; seaweed powder; honey. I use a wonderful combination called NR Tree Barks Gruel which combines Slippery Elm flour, Barley, Dill and Marshmallow root. It can be added to the food or I give it with goats milk and honey as an extra meal. These ingredients are excellent for milk production, as well as calming the bitch's overworked system. All my puppies are weaned with this Gruel.( They love the taste!) It soothes the stomach and entire digestive tract. Based on an old Native Indian recipe, it has proven to give superiority in bone, body and temperament. It can be especially useful in any case of diarrhea; sickness or convalescing animal. It can be particularly good for the dog with chronic digestive disorders. Simply add it daily to the food.

Poor Appetite
Any animal who suffers a lack of appetite can surely not perform at their best. For the dog who appears to have an appetite but only eats a couple of mouthfuls Lycopodium 30c could help this with a single dose. The Tridex 771 remedy has proven extremely useful in cases of appetite, underweight and in poor condition problems. In general, cases can be internally dosed with an infusion of peppermint twice daily. Finely chopped cress and grated raw apple are good to add on the food. An excellent appetite restorer that also aids in digestion is NR Daily Health tablets. This Juliette de Bairacli Levy formula is blended with couchgrass, garlic, molasses, barley, kelp, and hops. Dried hops are truly one of nature's best appetite stimulants and couchgrass is a most important intestinal cleansing herb for dogs. The blend promotes overall vitality and well being. I have given these to all my dogs for nine years now, and their health has been excellent.

Gastric Upsets
In cases of a an upset stomach, usually due from eating of the wrong foods Nux vomica 30x or BHI Stomach are good remedies. If there is great pain in the abdomen and especially if the dog is twisting in discomfort while crying out in pain Colocynthis 30c or BHI Intestine will bring relief. In cases of acute gastritis where there is great rumbling in the gut and the above mentioned remedies have not brought relief, I use Magnesia phosphorica 30x and Natrum muriaticum 30x every hour until the symptoms are relieved. In the emergency cases of Gastric Torsion or "Bloat", Nux moschata 30c can be used every 15 minutes along with BHI Stomach. This is definitely worth trying as it may stop the need for surgery.

There is a growing trend of veterinarians who utilize holistic medicine in their practices in North America. Complimentary medicine is well accepted in Europe and in many countries of the world. It is estimated that 90% of veterinarians in Germany use homeopathy in their practices The British Royals have utilized homeopathy for generations. In fact, it is recognized under the British National Health Service as accepted and safe form of medical treatment. It is up to us, the breeders and all animal lovers, to encourage our veterinarians to explore all the health care options that are available to us.

Through the years I have enjoyed tremendous success using complimentary medicine on my dogs. Even when I find it necessary to treat using orthodox methods, due to the dogs' high level of health and the initial homeopathic and herbal treatments that I have given them, their response time in healing is remarkable. Truly then we have the best of both worlds.