It is my opinion  much of the arthritis our dogs experience could be eliminated by changing their diets from a grain based food to a more meat based recipe.   Just because the first ingredient on the ingredient list is meat does not make the diet meat based.   The only way to distinguish if a food is meat based is to asked the company’s nutritionist (not customer support person) “what percent of their  food is meat when measured on a dry matter basis ?”  Judged on this basis, most pet foods are no more than 20% meat.   Grain based diets are hard for carnivores to digest and the poorly digested large grain protein molecules act as allergens which damage the intestinal lining and result in a “leaky gut syndrome”.    This leaky gut allows grain protein molecules to get into the blood stream where they can migrate to the pet’s joints and set up an inflammatory reaction.   Feeding a meat based diet helps to prevent the above sequence of events.   Supplementing the diet with digestive enzymes, fish oil, and antioxidants will help reduce the likelihood of arthritis.

If your dog has already developed arthritis there are a number of ways to help slow the progression and reduce the discomfort from the disease.   Injections of  “chondroprotective” substances which increase joint fluid production and  encourage cartilage repair can be very effective arthritis remedies.   Personally I am not a big proponent of  using non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) to reduce inflammation and pain because their long term use may result in gastro intestinal, liver, and kidney disease.   It has also been shown that long term use of NSAIDs in humans actually results in cartilage degeneration.   Providing glucosamine, chondroitin , MSM, Gerizyme, Adequin, Legend, Zeel , systemic enzymes, hyaluronic acid,  Comfort Zone  and antioxidants in place of NSAIDs can help restore joint integrity and, in my opinion, is a much preferred approach.

Other ways to treat advanced arthritis include physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, “infra-sonic therapy”,  “pulsed magnetic therapy”, prolotherapy, gold bead implants, cold laser therapy, Electro Crystal  Rebalancing  and massage therapy.   Teaching pet owners how to massage their pet and provide passive range of motion can be very helpful in extending and enhancing their pets quality of life.

Finally, I want let my readers know about a very exciting advance in arthritis therapy.    Adult stem cell technology is now available to help treat advanced arthritis.   The stem cells are harvested from the patients own fat.  These stem cells can be injected intravenously or directly into joints.   These injected primitive cells will develop into connective tissue and cartilaginous cells which will help to rejuvenate the damaged joint.   This technology is has already been used successfully in hundreds of dogs and horses and although still on the expensive side is now available to the family pet.   Presently I am one of the few veterinarians certified to provide such therapy.

Detecting the early signs of arthritis and instituting early treatment can make a huge difference in the  success of therapy.   Providing a high quality meat based diet, with omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants along with weight management can help prevent the onset of arthritis and help extend both the quality and quantity of the pet’s life.

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a bi monthly holistic pet care column for  ”Natural Awakening ” magazine.

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, White lake and Toledo

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You have probably heard of athletes rupturing their “ACL”  but didn’t really know what that meant.   The abbreviation ACL stands for “anterior cruciate ligament”.  This ligament is found inside the knee joint and helps to maintain its overall stability.   When this cruciate ligament is stretched or torn as a result of a sudden traumatic movement the  knee joint is no longer stable and begins to move in abnormal ways.   This abnormal movement results in pain, cartilage degeneration and eventually in arthritis.   Conventional medical advice for a cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture would be to have the knee repaired surgically.   There are several surgical techniques which are all quite effective in returning the knee joint to normal function, however, they are all quite expensive and have a 3 to 6 month re-cooperative period where the dog is significantly favoring the leg and placing additional stress on the opposite leg.   

In a large breed young animal cruciate ligament surgery may be the smartest thing to do but in an older animal the surgery may not be the best route to follow.    Consider first that neither anesthetic nor surgery is easy on an older animal.   Secondly, understand that the surgery will cause the animal to bare weight entirely on the opposite limb for a good 3 months.   This added stress can lead to  both arthritis and occassionaly a  cruciate ligament tear in the opposite hind leg.    The two most recommended cruciate surgeries are the “ lateral suture technique” and the “TPLO”.   Both are equally effective in the long run and both have inherent problems.     The suture technique surgery uses a heavy duty suture to stabilize the joint.   Although rare, this suture can slip, break or even get caught up on arthritic spurs already  present.    The TPLO is a more aggressive surgery where a portion of the tibial bone is purposely broken in order to change its alignment with the femur.   The TPLO knee surgery has more risk of bone infection and could even result in a non union fracture.   It is a significantly more expensive surgery  and produces no better long term outcome than the less aggressive less expensive suture technique.   The TPLO surgery may fail to produce the hoped for stability and is more likely to result in arthritis than the lateral suture technique.

For all of the above reasons, do not jump into surgery without first considering other options.   If you search the internet you may discover articles on “prolotherapy” as a method for rehabilitating damaged joints.   Prolotherapy has been used for over 30 years to repair hyper-mobile, unstable joints in humans.   It however is just starting to take its rightful place in veterinary medicine, although it is still considered to be in the realm of alternative medicine.   Prolotherapy, proliferative, or sclerosing therapy are simply different names for the same thing.   Prolotherapy is a  way of tightening up loose unstable, hyper-mobile joints  by injecting a “sclerosing” agent in and around the joint.    The sclerosing agent produces a thickening of the  joint capsule and of the external ligaments  of the joint.    This thickening of the ligaments act like scar tissue and eventually contract with time.    The thickening and contraction of the ligaments and joint capsule increase joint stability and relieves joint pain.     Prolotherapy commonly takes place in 5 to 6 sessions spaced approximately 3 weeks apart.    During each session the joint is shaved and disinfected with a surgical scrub.    Then multiple injections are carefully placed in the ligaments and joint capsule and even into the joint space.     Because of the number of injections most dogs will need to sedated but usually not anesthetized.    Although I tell caregivers not to expect any positive results until at least the third treatment I am occasionally  surprised to see improvement after just one treatment.   Although side effects from prolotherapy are rare, a joint infection is possible and consequently I surgically scrub the knee before each prolo session and give antibiotics to go home.    In very rare occasions it is possible for prolotherapy to injure a nerve passing by the knee however this has never happen to me and should not happen if care is taken to apply the sclerosing agents only to those areas of the knee where nerves are abscent.

In order to encourage more rapid fibrosis and  joint thickening I often apply soft laser therapy to the knee with a non cutting therapeutic laser device that employs 5 lasers of various frequencies .   Soft lasers are therapeutic devices that should not be confused with surgical lasers.    The soft laser is painless, quick and has next to no adverse side effects.   Soft laser therapy supports the prolotherapy by further encouraging fibrosis  of the joint capsule and external  ligaments.   I also recommend that oral doses of  “Orthoflex” and vitamin C be given at home throughout the prolotherapy process.    Another modality  I often recommend  be used in conjunction with prolotherapy is  pulsed magnetic therapy.    The pulsed magnetic waves reduce pain and help the joint recuperate.    Finally, to further support the prolotherapy, injections of  “Adequan” and “Legend”  can be given  to encourage cartilage health, joint fluid production  and overall joint rehabilitation.   

Prolotherapy for torn cruciate ligaments may not be successful if there is a torn meniscal cartilage in the joint.   It is also possible that in spite of multiple injections the thickening of the external ligaments may not be adequate to stabilize the joint and consequently the dog’s lameness remain.    That being said, when the choice is between joint surgery or prolotherapy, prolotherapy being safer, less invasive and less expensive makes more sense especially in the senior patient.

Prolotherapy can be performed on almost any joint of the body.  Personally I have  performed prolo on knee joints, elbow joints, hip joints,  the sacro illiacs joints and the lumbo sacral joints.

Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a bi monthly holistic pet care column for  ”Natural Awakening ” magazine.

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, White lake and Toledo

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Feed a high quality,  low protein diet prescription kidney diet available from all veterinarians– Or — feed a home made kidney diet by following a receipe that we  make available. The diet will decrease the formation of waste protein toxins, discourage obesity and reduce the work load of the kidney.

 Encourage your dog or cat to drink more by providing lots of fresh water throughout the day or by adding more water directly to the pet’s food.   Doing this will encourage better hydration while at the same time flush the kidneys and reduce accumulating protein waste toxins.    Because pets in kidney failure have kidneys that can not concentrate urine they will eventually become dehydrated unless they drink much more water than normal .    If a pet becomes dehydrated he or she will need to be given subcutaneous or intravenous fluids.   These fluids can be given in the veterinary hospital or the owner can be taught to do this at home.

 Make sure your dog or cat receives a regular dental prophylaxis to reduce oral bacteria  which are injurious to the animal’s kidneys, liver, and heart.  Home dental care is probably more important for dogs and cats than  for their caregivers because pets build tartar much faster and receive much less professional dental care.    Supplement your dog’s or cat’s diet with  veterinary recommended anti-oxidant enzymes, vitamins, minerals,  and glandulars to reduce tissue injury from free radicals and to stimulate natural immunity.  Omega 3 fatty acids are also important supplements that promotes kidney health.    Coenzyme Q10, resveratrol, and  lipoic acid are three  other important nutrients that support kidney function

 Have your veterinarian perform semi annual blood and urine testing to monitor your dog’s or cat’s kidney function and to provide an early warning system for the development of other degenerative disease.  Recently a new urine test, the ERD micro albuminuria test, has become available.  The ERD test requires only a small amount of urine and can detect kidney disease much earlier than blood tests.  Any dog or cat over the age of 6 years old should be routinely tested with an ERD test because not only does it detect kidney disease but  also is a screen for inflammatory disease of  other organs.   Any dog or cat that is found to be drinking or urinating more than normal should have a blood screen and urinalysis performed              

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, White lake and Toledo

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Chiropractic medicine whether for humans or animals is a very misunderstood medical modality.   Most people who go to chiropractors for treatment, think that when they get an adjustment the chiropractor is actually “putting  bones back in place”.  They believe that they feel relief from the chiropractic adjustment because their spine is immediately realigned .  This misconception stems from old chiropractic theory that actually taught chiropractors that they were  “putting bones back in place”.   Newer chiropractic theory however teaches chiropractic students that when they perform an adjustment they are creating movement in the joint but not putting the bone back in place.  The movement they create in the vertebral joint stimulates “mechano nerve receptors” in that joint to produce a reflex that blocks pain transmission.   The blockage of the pain reflex provides pain control  by alleviating muscle spasm and by dilating blood vessels.    The relaxation of the paraspinal muscles and not the  thrust of the  adjustment is what indirectly results in the spinal  realignment.

Chiropractic care can do more than eliminate back and neck pain. Through the stimulation of  “somato-visceral reflexes” chiropractic care can support  internal organ function.   Chiropractic care can also produce “myofascial release” by stimulation of the “golgi bodies” in the muscle tendons.  Consequently chiropractic  can help people and pets  with “myofascitis” and “fibromyalgia”

Human chiropractors get their training at chiropractic schools whereas veterinarians receive their training in spinal adjustment via an intense postgraduate course offered by special schools.  There are 2 schools of training in veterinary spinal adjustment .  One school of training is in association with the   American Veterinary  Chiropractic Association (AVCA).    The other  school of training  is offered by VOM (Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation).  AVCA is primarily a manual adjusting group which means they use only their hands to perform an adjustment.  VOM on the other hand teaches adjustment using mechanical and electrical devices called accelerometers.   Dr. Simon has been trained in both approaches.  In addition he performs a third type of adjustment known as “Logan Basic” .   Logan Basic is a very gentle form of chiropractic that was developed and first taught at Logan Chiropractic College.   It involves putting pressure on the pelvic sacro-tuberous ligament in order to relax the para-spinal muscles.  This relaxation allows adjustments to be done with very little force.  Dr. Simon frequently utilizes Logan Basic in conjunction with VOM.

 Please keep in mind that just as with acupuncture, chiropractic care requires a series of treatments to get desired results.   Also remember that chiropractic  is not limited to musculoskeletal and neurological problems but can also be used to treat a wide variet of internal organ problems.

Dr. Simon is aware that there are human chiropractors who attempt to adjust pets at night after their regular office hours.   He would like to warn pet owners that only those human  chiropractors that have attended and graduated from a  recognized post graduate program  in veterinary anatomy and neurology should attempt such adjustments and only under veterinary supervision. 

                           VETERINARY ORTHOPEDIC MANIPULATION:   VOM

Veterinary Orthopedic-neural Manipulation otherwise known as VOM is a non-invasive healing technology that is similar to classical chiropractic medicine in that it locates areas called subluxation that exists along the animal’s spinal cord and reduces the subluxations such that proper nervous tissue communication is re-established.   A “spinal accelerometer” is used to assess the health of the spine and adjustments are made using this same instrument.    As the practitioner tests the entire spine with the accelerometer,  he watches for specific reflexes, called “reads”, to occur.   These reads are evidence of pathology called “subluxations”.   Subluxations cause vascular constriction, reduced circulation and decreased oxygenation to muscles and other tissues of the body.   The results of these subluxations changes can be seen as muscle spasm, pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion.  After identifying these abnormal areas along the vertebral column the practitioner will use the same instrument to apply light force to the vertebrae in the affected area.   The motion created will stimulate a nerve impulse in the mechano-receptors  of the vertebral joint.   These nerve impulses will  travel to the spinal cord where they in turn stimulate cells called “interneuron’s”.   Interneuron stimulation dilates blood vessels, increases circulation and oxygenation of muscles, reduces spasm, stops pain, and increases range of motion.

Most abnormal functions of the body are a result of muscle spasm of one sort or another and consequently reduction of subluxations can have far reaching health benefits.

The VOM  technology uses very gentle adjusting techniques which are safer than classical chiropractic methods.  The VOM practitioner is termed a “chiropractitioner” as opposed to a chiropractor.     However, just like chiropractic care VOM therapy is not accomplished in a single visit or adjustment.   Follow up evaluations and adjustments scheduled at very specific intervals are required if long term healing is to occur.

For more information on the VOM technique and to watch a video of the technique in action please visit the website:  LABH.com/vom

The VOM technique is often followed by the MFR technique which produces myofascial release.   MFR enhances VOM by further relieving the increased muscle spasms and fascial tension caused by subluxations.   The resulting decreased muscle spasm provides the animal  with pain reduction and decreases the recurrence of subluxation.  Consequently the overall healing process is accelerated.

VOM can be used to treat non-musculo-skeletal conditions including organ disease (somato-visceral disease).  VOM is used to promote a balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (organ function) components of the autonomic nervous system.  Using VOM in this way complements its use on musculo-skeletal system by further altering the blood flow and nervous stimulation to all areas of the body.   VOM utilizes sites on the body similar to acupuncture points as well as other sites to return balance too the autonomic nervous system

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a monthly pet care column in the Mirror newspaper.   He is a past president of the Oakland County Veterinary Medical Association and a past board of both American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association and the Southeastern Michigan Veterinary Medical Association.

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, and Toledo.

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The present conventional theory of cancer is that both humans and pets are continually producing cancer cells in their body, however, a healthy body will have an efficient immune system which is on constant alert for the development of  cancerous cells and will quickly destroy these cells before they can form as cancerous mass,  more commonly referred to  as a tumor.   Unfortunately,  if we are not in the best of health and our immune system is not receiving the raw materials it needs to fight off emerging threats , the cancer cells will get a foot hold and grow into a tumor that may become life threatening.

Any time you notice a lump or swelling on your pet have it promptly checked out by your veterinarian.    Although veterinarians can often make a good guess as to whether the lump is benign or malignant he or she can never be certain without first obtaining a biopsy sample that is then sent to the veterinary pathologist for a definite diagnosis.   The biopsy may be obtained with a needle, key punch device, biopsy forceps or  by excising the whole growth or a portion with a scalpel blade.    When the biopsy is taken with a needle and syringe it is called “an aspiration biopsy”.   Although  aspiration biopsies are perhaps the most common approach to identifying malignancy  they do provide more chance for misdiagnosis because of the small size of the sample.    Any new growth should be biopsied even if it looks like a benign fatty tumor.    Benign fatty tumors (lipomas) can not be  distinguished from malignant mast cell tumors by physical exam alone.    At a recent oncology seminar I attended the speaker made the following very important point:   “Do not wait to see if a mass continues to grow before  biopsying it to determine whether it is malignant.”

Of course there are many cancer growths which can not be seen because they involve internal organs.   Cancers like hemangiosarcomas of the spleen, may get huge before they produce obvious outward symptoms.  Below are what many veterinary sources consider to be possible signs of cancer.:    weight loss for no apparent reason, loss of normal appetite, bleeding from a body opening like the nostril,  a foul odor from the mouth, difficulty eating and swallowing,  difficulty breathing,  non healing wounds,  lameness that persists.

So what can we do to protect ourselves and our pets from cancer and how can we treat them once they are diagnosed with cancer?   Think holistic, holistic, holistic.   Keeping our pets bodies in optimal health by providing them a healthy diet,  healthy environment and life style, and plenty of exercise is the foundation for a strong immune system .   Please visit my website Doc4pets.com for details on how to feed a healthy diet .    As for a healthy environment, this would include minimal exposure to poisonous plants and  chemical toxins on the grass, in the house, and in the garage.   Radon levels in the basement should be checked.   Don’t smoke around your pet.   Second hand smoke has been shown to increase the incidence of cancer in cats.   With regard to a healthy life style,  this  should include plenty of companionship and minimal stress.    Even psychological stress due to isolation can suppress a pet’s immune system and make him or her more susceptible to cancer.   So try not to leave your dog alone in the house for extended periods.   Spend quality time with your pet.  Exercise can be  in the form of jogging, fetching, hiking or competitive sports  such as “fly ball”training or chasing a laser light.   Take your pet to a holistic veterinarian who can serve as  your partner and coach in helping you reduce your pets toxin load, and in supporting his or her immune system.

Conventional treatment of pets diagnosed with cancer includes surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy.   Alternative / holistic  approaches include organic rare meat diets, liver support and detoxification,  antioxidants therapy, herbal  formulas, acupuncture, and immune stimulants,  oxygen therapy,  Neoplasene therapy and life style enhancement.

Cancer is a class of diseases in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth, invasion and destruction of surrounding tissues.  Some cancer remains a localized problem but others spread (metastasize) to other locations via the blood and lymphatics.    Cancer affects people and pets of all ages.   The branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer is “oncology”.   Nearly all cancers are caused by abnormalities in the genes of these abnormal cells.   These abnormalities may be due to the effects of carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, and infectious agents (viruses) to name a few.  Other causes of cancer may result from random errors in gene replication or are inheritied and present in all cells since birth.    Conventionally cancer diagnosis is made by the microscopic exam of a biopsy specimen although the initial indications of malignancy may come from radiographic abnormalities.   The progression of many cancers can be slowed down and in rare instances disappear.    The prognosis depends on the type of cancer, the location of the cancer and stage of the cancer.     Upon confirming the diagnosis, cancer is usually treated conventionally with chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.

The following is information on the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Cancer that occurs in the mouth, underneath the tongue or along the gums of the middle-aged and older cats. Common signs of squamous cell carcinoma in cats includes difficulty eating, interest in food but not wanting to eat, drooling and odor from the mouth. Osteosarcoma – Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone tumor in dogs. Osteosarcoma beings in the bone but can spread throughout the bloodstream very early in the course of the disease (metastasis).   The most common areas for this cancer to appear are the wrist, shoulder, knee and hip. The first sign of bone cancer is lameness due to pain from the cancer.   Swelling often occurs at the tumor site. Transitional Cell Carcinoma – Tumors usually form at the bladder opening and can cause blockage and  painful urinartion. Pets often strain while trying to urinate. Transitional Cell Carcinoma can be difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine or frequent urination are often due to a urinary tract infection. This can delay the discovery of the cancer, especially since antibiotics can often result in some improvement of symptoms. Thus, at the time of diagnosis, bladder cancer can be fairly far advanced and have spread to other parts of the body.    Adenocarcinoma – Anal sac adenocarcinomas are tumors araising from the apocrine glands present on either side of the rectum. These tumors can range greatly in size from a very small mass that can be found only after a rectal examination or a large mass protruding from the rectum. While the tumor appears locally, it is quite common for them to metastasize,  often to the lymph nodes inbetween the spine and colon. Symptoms vary depending upon the gender of the pet and can include increased thirst, weakness, persistent licking at the site, difficulty defecating, decreased appetite.

The incidence of cancer is increasing in both humans and animals     Certain cancers are more prevalent in in certain breeds ie.  Golden retrievers with lymposarcoma, boxers with mastocytoma,  Great Danes with osteosarcoma, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers with hemangiosarcoma.  Irresponsible  breeding to achieve  nothing more than looks at the expense of health is probably the cause for such breed predispositions.   If you are thinking of purchasing a new pup check out the breed to find out what health issues the breed is proned to.

When a pet or   person is diagnosed with cancer the  question that needs to be asked is, “Why did it happen?”   The present thinking is that we are all developing cancer cells all the time.   If our body is healthy and its immune system is efficient then these renegade cancer cells will be identified and destroyed before a solid tumor results.     When a tumor develops, at some level the immune system failed to perform effectively.    So the question is where and why did the failure occur.   As the overall causes of cancer first you have genetics.   Second you have the affects of diet and thirdly the effects of a toxic environment and life style (which includes psychological stress).

Cancer is not something you or your pet contract it is something that often happens to you slowly, in a step by by step progression.  The unfortunate fact is that cancer  is the all too often  the end result of living in a toxic world.   Environmental  toxins occur as excessive sunlight, chronic electromagnetic field exposure, geopathic stress, sick building syndrome, ionizing radiation, nuclear radiation, pesticide/herbicide residues, industrial toxins, polluted water, chlorinated water, fluoridated water, household cleaners and even possibly vaccines.   Food toxins occur as pesticides, parasitacides, antibiotics, hormone, texturizers, flavor enhancers,  food colorings, and allergens.

Anything that produces a damage to the intestinal lining can results in a leaky gut syndrome where bad bacteria, bacterial toxins,  yeast, and large grain protein molecules  are able to enter the liver’s hepatic circulation and eventually exhaust the livers ability to detoxify.    When toxins enter the body they challenge both the immune system and the detoxification system.     Toxins, which  often act as free radicals  stimulate:   1) the immune system to produce a protective  inflammatory response  and  2) the antioxidants defense system to neutralize the free radicals.     If the immune system is too busy dealing with a heavy toxic load  it may become so overwhelmed that it does not have the time or man power to protect the body from spontaneously occurring cancer cell.   Also, toxins and free radicals can damage cellular DNA and be the cause of many of the spontaneously occurring cancer cells .

Under more optimal environmental circumstances where toxins are not so abundant,  mutated cancer cells are quickly recognized by the immune system such that the cancerous cell’s uncontrollable growth  elicits an immune response which will send  macrophages (phagocytic white blood cells) to the region for cellular phagocytosis and removal of the mutated cells (Walters, 1993).

Besides a toxic environment, nutritional deficiencies may also predispose the body to cancer.   If the raw materials the immune system and the detoxification process requires to do its job are not present then the cancer may not be discovered and or destroyed.    The cells will then grow into a malignant mass.

It starts to become apparent that cancer must be considered a whole body, systemic disease rather than a   localized phenomena.    Conventional medicine treats cancer as a localized disease and recommends  the “cut, slash, and burn” approach to cancer therapy.   That is they treat cancer more as a localized disease that must be either surgically cut out, slashed out by irradiation, or burned out by chemical destruction.   Most conventional oncologists do not emphasize the importance of  the elimination of food and environmental toxins or enhancing overall nutrition.   He or she rarely recommends nutraceuticals to  stimulate the immune system,  support the liver, encourage detoxification,  and remove destructive free radicals.

On the contrary, holistic cancer therapy begins by  emphasing optimal general nutrition consisting of  homemade diets made up of  a wide variety of fresh  organic meats and veggies,  trace minerals,  omega fatty acids.   To this foundation of great general nutrition, the holistic approach adds nutraceuticals providing digestive enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics, mega vitamin and trace mineral therapy, whole food concentrated antioxidants,  immune stimulants,  detoxification and liver support.    Next the  holistic approach commonly adds nutriceuticals that help to change “the biological terrain” to  one that is inhospitable for the  growth of cancer.    Cancer loves sugar and acidity,  but hates oxygen and an alkaline environment.   By changing the bioterrain to one that discourages cancer growth we hope  to prevent  both local growth and metastasis to other sites.   Trace minerals encourage an alkaline bioterrain where stabilized oxygen supplements, dimethylglycine,  and Megahydrate support a highly oxygenated terrain,  both of which discourage the progression of cancer.

Perhaps the most important organ to support in a cancer patient is the liver since it is the major organ of detoxification.    The more overwhelmed and exhaused the liver is the more toxic the body becomes.   The more toxic the body the poorer is its overhall immune system function.   Therefore supporting the livers detoxification capactiy will help cleanse the body and encourgage a better functioning immune system.   Herbs like milk thistle and nutrients like MSM,  n acetylcysteine, alpha lipoic acid, dimethyglycine, SAM-E and selenium all help the liver to better detox the body by stimulating the production of glutathione and glutathione peroxidase which is the most important  antioxidant of the liver.

Nutrients, herbs, and homeopathics that support the immune system include  medicinal mushroom, astragalus, zinc, iodine, selenium thyroid hormones,  thymus extracts, beta glucans, essential carbohydrates, and systemic enzymes etc.

Next there are a number of specific nutrients and herbs that block the progression of cancer at various stages of development.  Resveratrol  is an example.  Finally there are specific herbs and nutrients,  that are lethal to cancer.   These include IV vitamin C, Laetrile, Artemesinin, and hydrogen peroxide.

The big difference between conventional cancer therapy and  the above nutritional, nutraceutical,  and   mega nutrient holistic cancer therapy is that the later does not: damage healthy cells,  produce destructive free radicals, or suppress the immune system.   Since we know that the immune system is instrumental in removing cancerous cells ,  anything that damages its effectiveness would be unwanted.  A final note is that even when the holistic approach does not cure cancer at least it does no harm.   So keeping thinking holistic, holistic, holistic!

There is no one, holistic “right way” to treat  a  cancer patient in humans or pets .   The treatment will depend not only on the type of cancer  but also on the individual patient and caregiver.   It will also depend on how long the cancer has been present and what medical treatment has already been prescribes.   Some cases are so advanced that I don’t recommend much treatment other than nutritional therapy.    In such cases it is usually best to focus on and enjoy the time you have left  together with the patient rather than complicating the patients life with stressful supplement regiments.       No matter what stage of cancer the patient is in they can  benefit from an improved diet loaded with vitamin/antioxidants like Vitamin A, C, and E and the mineral selenium.   Blood cleansing herbs and detoxifiers are usually in order.    So think holistic, holistic, holistic!

Categories of holistic anti cancer supplements

1) Holistic supplements which enhance cellular immunity

Astragalus, Echinacea, Aloe mucopolysaccharides, Omega3, carotenoids,

mushroom and yeast extracts,  Green tea polyphenols,  reduced glutathione,

vitamin C

2) Holistic supplements which minimize oxidative stress and destroy free radicals

Resveratrol, reduced glutathione, green tea, quercitin , curcumin,  megahydrate,

Selenium, vitamin C and E, Lipoic acid, hydrogen peroxide,

3)  Holistic supplements which support the liver and detoxification process .

 Reduced glutathione, N acetylcysteine, Curcumin, Resveratrol, SAM-E, E, milk  Thistle,

4)  Holistic supplements that normalize the clock of the  cell cycle

Resveratrol, , tocotrienols, curcumin, green tea polyphenols, vitamin D,

CoQ10,   reduced glutathione, Quercitin

5)  Holistic supplements that enhance cancer cell differentiation

Vit D3,  caratenoids,  Ganoderma,  Quercitin

6)  Holistic supplements that encourage apoptosis

Green tea polyphenols,  quercitin, CoQ10,  Ganoderma,  Curcumin

7)  Holistic supplements that are anti angiogenic ( inhibit new blood vessel proliferation) supplements

Omega3, Green tea polyphenols,  Aloe Vera, shark cartilage,

8)  Holistic supplements that kill malignant cells by stimulating intercellular production

of  H202

Vitamin C, Artemesinin, H202,

9)   Holistic supplements that create an inhospitable biologic terrain for cancer cells to

live in.  They increase alkalinity, oxygenation, 

Megahydrate, Ultimate pH Balance,  H202, NaHC03 & honey

10)   Holistic supplements blocking cancer cell initiation, promotion and progression

Resveratrol,  Selenium,  garlic, catechins and polyphenols from green tea,

Cruciferous vegetables (Brassica),  quercitin, Ascorbic acid, omega 3 fatty

Acids, vitamin E, proanthocyanidins

11)  Miscellaneous holistic supplements

Glucosinolates from cruciferous veggies, sprouts, cabbage,

homeopathic therapy

The following are a list of terms with definition that are important to know when you are reading or researching cancer:

Tumor:   A swelling, lump, or mass.

Neoplasm:   An abnormal proliferation of genetically altered cell.  A mass formed by an abnormal proliferation of genetically altered cells.  Synonymous with the word tumor

Malignant Neoplasm:  Synonymous with cancer.

Benign Neoplasm/tumor:  A tumor that stops growing by itself, does not invade other tissues and does not spread to other tissue (metastasize).

Pre malignant tumor:  A neoplasm that is not invasive but has the potential to progress to cance

Stage of cancer:   a number on a scale of 4 developed by the oncologists to describe the degree of invasion of the body by the tumor.

Carcinoma: Malignant tumor derived from epithelial cells

Sarcoma:  Malignant tumor derived from connective tissue

Lymphoma and Leukemia:  Malignancies derived from hematopoietic (blood forming) cells.

Blastoma:   A tumor which resembles an immature or embryonic tissue

Symptoms of cancer may be divided into 3 groups:

1)  Local symptoms= lumps, bumps, or swelling, bleeding, pain,  ulcerations

2) Symptoms of metastasis= enlarged lymph nodes, cough, enlarged liver, bone

pain, fracture of affected bones, neurological symptom

3)  Systemic symptoms = weight loss, poor appetite, fatigue, anemia

The general scenario of cancer development occurs this way

1. “Induction” of genetic instability
2.  Abnormal “Expression” of genes:  too many cancer promoting genes and too few cancer inhibiting  genes
3. Abnormal “Signal Transduction”:  Signals that come from outside the cell and go to the nucleus stimulate proliferation of malignant cells
4. Abnormal “cell to cell communication”:  In cancer cells the mechanisms controlling communication with other cells doesn’t work
5. Induction of “Angiogenesis”:  growth of new capillaries
6. “Invasion and metastaisis”: spread via lymph and blood
7. “Immune  evasion”: cancer cells learn to shield themselves from the immune system

Basic Premises about cancer

1. Failure of immune surveillance to detect cancer due to:
   1. nutritional deficiencies causing hypofunction;   dietary toxins
   2. GI and liver damage which allows toxin into body resulting in immune stress
   3. Exhausted by environmental stress
   4. Exhausted by psychologic or physical stress

2.    Cancer loves sugar

3.    Cancer hates oxygen

4.   Cancer loves an acidic environment.  Toxins are acidic.  Free radicals are acidic

5.   Cancer loves iron

6.   Oncovirus damage DNA

7.   Free radicals damage DNA therefore antioxidants can help prevent cancer.

8.   Cancer is a  result of an energy blockage that orginates in the etheric field — eastern concept

9.   Unlike healthy cells cancer cells can not make the enzyme catalase which is needed to destroy intercellular toxic hydrogen peroxide.   Vitamin C therapy stimulates intercellular hydrogen peroxide.

10.   The liver is the most important organ to support when treating cancer because it is the major organ of detoxification.

A few more remarks on common canine cancers:

Hemangiosarcoma – Most commonly found in the spleen, liver and heart and the prognosis is determined by the location of the disease. The cancer arises from the blood vessels and results in the production of abnormal blood vessels that can be weak and prone to leaking. As the cancer progresses, the cancerous vessels can rupture and results in blood loss. As the spleen is the organ most commonly affected by this type of cancer, rupture can lead to blood loss into the abdomen. This is an emergency situation and can result in weakness and collapse. Many pets with hemangiosarcoma often require a splenectomy.

Mast Cell Tumors – Mast cell tumors are among the most common tumors in dogs and are the most common type of skin cancer found in dogs. The most common location to find mast cell tumors is, by far, the skin, followed by the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Both normal and cancerous mast cells contain chemicals that can be released into surrounding tissues. When these chemicals (particularly histamine) are released into the normal surrounding body tissues, side effects can include digestive problems (for ex: bleeding ulcers), skin rashes, shortness of breath and other symptoms. Mast cell tumors vary greatly in their size, shape, appearance and texture. The only way to definitely identify them is with a biopsy and pathology report.

Lymphoma – is cancer of the lymphatic tissue. The lymph system is a core part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that defends the body against infections. It is comprised of a network of lymphatic vessels that carry lymph (a clear, watery fluid that contains protein, salts, glucose and other substances) throughout the body. The lymphatic system also serves as a low pressure drainage system that collects interstitial fluid throughout the body and returns it to the bloodstream. The most common sign of lymphoma is a painless enlargement of the lymph nodes.

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a monthly pet care column in the Mirror newspaper.   He is a past president of the Oakland County Veterinary Medical Association and a past board member of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association.

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, and Toledo.

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There are number of therapies that can be utilized to help rehabilitate injured or painful pets.  Among them are acupuncture, chiropractic, nutritional and herbal support,  intravenous and transcutaneous lasers therapy  , pulsed magnetic therapy,  infrasonic and ultrasonic therapy,  microcurrent stimulation, underwater treadmill, hydrotherapy,  prolotherapy, range of motion and therapeutic exercise, massage therapy, balance and proprioception equipment.  Other supportive measures we use are systemic enzyme therapy, antioxidant therapy, DMSO, homeopathy, and herbal therapy

The following conditions are just a few we have successfully treated with rehabilitation therapy:   Wobblers and intervertebral disk disease,  arthritis, cruciate ligament tears, post surgical cruciate ligament repairs, lumbo-sacral stenosis,  hip dysplasia,  degenerative myelopathy and any soft tissue injury involving post surgical wounds,   damaged tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a monthly pet care column in the Mirror newspaper.   He is a past president of the Oakland County Veterinary Medical Association and has served on the board of both the South Eastern Veterinary Medical Association and the American HolisticVeterinary Medical Association. 

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, and Toledo.

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 The two most common causes for the above symptoms and  history  are:   1) a “petit mal”  or “grand mal” seizure  or  2) a syncopal episode.   When most people think of an epileptic seizure they think of a “grand mal” seizure. This is a seizure where the entire body becomes rigid, the neck arches backward, the teeth are clenched shut, and the whole body trembles violently. There is, however, a second type of epileptic seizure which is much quieter and less violent.  This type of seizure is called a “petit mal” seizure and is characterized by a momentry loss of consciousness. The cause of an epileptic seizure, grand or petit,  is the misfiring of neurons in the brain.    Syncopy or a ”syncopal episode” may be mistaken for a ”petit seizure because it causes a momentary loss of consciousness but unlike seizures it is caused by a heart problem producing a momentary loss of blood to the brain.            

Regardless of which of the two above possibilities is the actual cause of the problem it is very important that you take your pet to your veterinarian to have a diagnostic workup performed so that he or she can come to a definite conclusion and treat the specific diagnosis accordingly. Both of the possible causes can develop into life threatening conditions and therefore you should not wait until the problem becomes worse before seeking veterinary care.  Your veterinarian, after performing a detailed physical exam, will most likely want to send a sample of your pet’s blood and urine to the laboratory for  a general diagnostic screen and urinalysis.  He will , no doubt,  also perform an electrocardiogram (ECG) in an attempt to distinguish any heart condition that may be the basis of the problem.  He may even decide to take chest and abdominal radiographs.

If the blood report, urinalysis,  the ECG, and the radiographs all turn out to be normal then your veterinarian will, through a  process of elimination, diagnose your pet with epilepsy.  If the diagnosis actually is epilepsy then oral anticonvulsant will be prescribed.  If the problem turns out to be a heart related problem such as an “arrhythmia” a medication to regulate the heart rate and rhythm will be prescribed.

Because anti-convulsant drugs such as Phenobarbital often cause pets to change personality and appear drugged pet owners often stop the therapy or reduce the dose to below therapeutic levels.  Consequently the seizures are poorly controlled.   Pet owners should know that there are alternative, non drug methods of preventing epilepsy.  Herbal therapy, neuro transmitter therapy and nutritional supplements  can be used alone or in combination with drugs to help control seizures, lower drug dosages and minimize  drug related behavioral effects.   Acupuncture and gold bead implantation in the pets head and ears are additional ways of controlling seizure.

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a monthly pet care column in the Mirror newspaper.   He is a past president of  the Oakland County Veterinary Medical Association and has served on the executive board of both the Southeastern Veterinary Medical Association and the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association.

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, and Toledo.

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The future is here and medicine is now able to heal tissue with light frequencies, sound frequencies and pulsed magnetic waves.    The  most futuristic of all healing modalities is the use of  low energy laser beams  to heal tissue, reduce pain, and provide the patient additional energy.   The term laser is an acronym that stands for  “Light Amplification thru Stimulated Emission of Radiation.  There are both high power and low power lasers.   The high powered “hot” lasers are cutting lasers and are used in surgery, industry, or by the defense department.  The low power or cold lasers are used  in supermarket barcode readers, compact disc players, lecture pointers, laser light shows and medicine.    The therapeutic uses for  low energy lasers in medicine includes the promotion of tissue healing and the reduction of pain and swelling.   Lasers are being used by medical doctors, veterinarians, dentists, chiropractors and  physical therapists.  Holistic equine veterinarians have used lasers to perform acupuncture and treat joints for over 20 years.  The first therapeutic lasers produced were either infrared or red radiation.   More recently green and blue lasers have come in use.  Each colored laser has advantages and disadvantages over the others.   Regardless of color these low energy lasers produce no heat and there are very safe to use with the exception of the danger they may pose to the eyes if the patient or physician stares directly into the beam.  

It was in 1973 that Friedrich Plog in Canada discovered that lasers could be used in place of needles to stimulate acupuncture points.  Later that decade Dr. Endre Mester a professor in Butapest performed a number of animal studies and subsequent human trials where he used laser irradiation to heal patients suffering from chronic unhealed wounds that were unresponsive to other treatments.  These patients provided the first direct evidence of the photobiostimulative potential of low energy laser therapy in humans.

 Based on the reported successes of Plog and  Mester a range of research projects were intiated, principally in eastern Europe, China and the Soviet Union.  The positive findings of this research has resulted in laser therapy becoming a popular modality in those countries and is reflected in the large number or researched papers which originated from these countries.   However for some reason the acceptance of low level laser therapy in the USA has been much slower to catch on and many new innovative lasers licensed in Europe have not been licensed by the FDA.

Within the medical profession the  use of low level laser therapy is most enthusiastically used by  physiotherapist.  In a survey of physical therapists they rated low level laser therapy more effective than any other form of electrotherapeutic modalities including, ultrasound and pulsed electromagnetic therapy when it came to wound healing, pain relief and the reduction of tissue swelling (edema) .   I have used red and infrared lasers to  treat dogs and cats for arthritis, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disk disease, spinal arthritis (spondylosis) and torn cruciate ligaments.  I have also used lasers to rehabilitate seriously  ill animals.

Low level laser therapy may be applied directly to the skin or applied from 1 to 3 inches above the skin.  This form of laser application is referred to as “transcutaneous” (through the skin).     When applied to the skin red lasers penetrate only to a depth of    whereas infra red lasers can penetrate to a depth of 8 cm. and can actually have an effect on internal organs.   When applied to vascular areas of the skin, lasers can  be used to irradiate circulating red blood cells and produce a systemic effect. .   Lasers can also  irradiate blood through  intravenous application.   Regardless of which method is used the effects of laser blood irradiation are as follows:

1.   an improved immune system function with increased numbers of white cells(lymphocytes and phagocytic neutrophils  which engulf bacteria)

2.   a reduction in blood clotting time making strokes less likely

3.  an increase in microcirculation and tissue oxygenation

4.  an  increase in cellular energy production (ATP) through stimulation of the  mitochondria

5.  a relief of pain and swelling

6.  provides antispasmotic, anti inflammatory effects

7.   improves liver and kidney function

8.  Stimulates microcirculation in the central nervous system- specifically the hypothalamus and  limbic systems leading to stimulation of hormonal, metabolic, immunologic, and    autonomic nervous system function

9.    stimulates the the antioxidant enzyme system  

10   improves the red blood cell regeneration (erythrogenesis)

Specific Applications

1.  Intervertebral disk disease (slipped disk in back)

2.  Degenerative joint disease

 3.  Cruciate ligament tears

 4.  Soft tissue injuries: muscle, tendon, and ligament strains and sprains

 5.  Acute and chronic ear disease

 6.  Sinusitis and rhinits

 7.  Pre and post surgical care

 8.  Wound care

9.  Re energizing sick and debilitated animals

10.  Rehabilitation and physical therapy

11.  Immune system support

12.  Autoimmune disease

13.  Acute and chronic pain relief

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a bi monthly pet care column for the Natural Awakening Magazine.   He is a past president of the Oakland County Veterinary Medical Association and has served on the executive board of  both the Southeastern Michigan Veterinary Medical Association and the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association.  

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, and Toledo.

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At Woodside Animal Clinic we have been having increasing success managing fearful, aggressive, and destructive behavior with minerals, anti anxiety herbs, homeopathics, flower essences, essential oils, nutritional and dietary changes and especially “neurotransmitter therapy”.   Often several of these supplements are used in combination and then combined with behavior modification techniques.    The use of the neurotransmitter therapy along with dietary modification and nutraceuticals appears to place an animal in a state where they are calmer, less dominant, and less fearful so they are easier to manage and train.

Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals derived from specific amino acid precursors.  The brain produces foue primary neurotransmitters which in turn produce distinctly different brain states.   These different states of mind create a mood which affects the rest of the body thru both nerve pathways and endocrine (hormonal) connections.  Neurotransmitters appear to be the master conductors of the body.    Of course there are other neurotransmitters besides these major four but , for the sake of space, I will limit my discussion to these four.

Communication between the brain and the body, between the various endocrine organs, and between various cells of the body is necessary to maintain balance and have all parts of the body work in harmony.   Think again of an orchestra with its many different instruments playing their distinct parts each of which must harmonize with the whole.    In order for this to happen there must be a conductor to guide the individual orchestral sections.    The conductor not only cues the various instruments he also calls for greater or lesser volume, and maintains the tempo depending on what the music calls for.    Of course the orchestra we call a living body is much more complicated and therefore a   much more sophisticated line of communication is needed. In the paragraphs to follow I will discuss neurotransmitter and how they conduct the bodies vast communication network.

Whether you are a human being or a pet your brain produces 4  major neurotransmitters each of which cause the brain to operate at distinctly different frequencies which in turn produces distinctly different mental  states or moods.  Below is a chart listing  these 4 distinctions as they relate to humans.   Since the  brains  of animals are anatomically similar and produce these same neurotransmitters   we can only assume that they experience similar  mental states.   The basic personality differences we find in young  animals may be a result of excesses or  deficiencies in these chemicals.  ie. shy fear biters or aggressive dominance etc.  As  we learn more about these 4 major neurotransmitters we may be able to adjust or  balance them in  people and pets in order to correct basic personality  disorders.   

Neurochemical      Frequency     Brain wave     Amino acid          Mental state                                                                    Function                                                                                                                                                                                               .                                                                                  

  1) Dopamine       (12-16 hertz)       Delta waves         Tyrosine                     Sleep                       Voltage       

 2) Acetylcholine   (8-12 hertz)        Theta waves       phosphotidylserine

  3) GABA                    (4-8  hertz)         Alpha waves       Glutamine                   Daydreaming       Rhythm

4} Serotonin         (1-4  hertz)             Beta aves        tryptophan                   Thinking               

These brain states,  however, are not limited to the brain,   they affect the  entire body via  their connection to the autonomic nervous system, the endocrine system, and secretion of  information molecules.    Here is where  the body mind  connection is born.

If any one the nutritional precursors (amino acids) used to manufacture these 4 major  neuro chemicals is  deficient then the   associated neurotransmitter will  be deficient and the body’s mental state  will be affected.  Adding one of the above amino  acids to the  diet can help correct a neuro-transmitter deficiency and re establish balance between  these 4 neuro chemicals.    The 4 amino acid precursors tryptophan,  tyrosine,  phosphatidylserine, and glutamine  can be  used to change an animal’s or person’s overall tone and personality.  

Allow me give you a very quick course in neurotransmitters.  The nervous system is made up of individual cells called neurons.   They act more or less as the body’s wiring.   Electrical nerve impulses pass down  this wiring.   When a nerve impulse reaches the end of a neuron it is able to jump over to the next neuron using chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. These neurochemicals are stored in tiny sacs at the end of each neuron.   When the nerve impulse reaches the end  of the neuron it triggers a response which causes these sacs to empty there contents into the gap that separates one nerve from another.   These spaces are known as synapses.     When the secreted neurotransmitters  reach the other side of the synapse they cause the next neuron to fire and the impulses continues down the nerve accordingly.

Now lets talk in more detail about the four major neurotransmitters:

 GABA  (Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid) is the brain’s natural Valium.  It is synthesized in the body from its precursor amino acid Glutamine.  Vitamin B6  and pyridoxine 6 phosphate are also  precursor needed to form GABA.   GABA is involved in the production of endorphins which produces the GABA quality of calmness.     GABA is also the body’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter and the major controller of brain rhythm.  A rhythmic brain creates and receives electricity in a smooth and even flow as contrasted with bursts.   Rhythm determines how we handle life’s stresses.   GABA hinders the transmission of impulses from one neuron to another and slows neuronal transmission.  It has a calming and quieting influence which provide relaxing, anti anxiety and anti convulsive effects.    Inositol enhances the effects of GABA.

Serotonin is the brains natural Prozac.  The body manufactures Serotonin from the precursor amino acid tryptophan.   By increasing the amount of tryptophan in the diet you can elevate the serotonin levels thereby producing the same effect as Prozac.    Balancing the brain means synchronizing the right and left hemispheres.  When our hemispheres are “in sync” we feel peaceful and secure.

Dopamine is the 3rd major neurotransmitters.   Dopamine manages brain voltage .  The nervous system manufactures dopamine from the amino acid precursor Tyrosine.  Tyrosine is converted to L Dopa and then to Dopamine.   Dopamine has many important roles in behavior including sleep, mood, attention and learning.  It is associated with stimulation of the  pleasure centers of the brain .  Deficient dopamine is linked to attention deficit disorders  and loss of creativity in humans.  Dopamine has been associated with the processing of pain such that decreased levels of dopamine encourage painful conditions such as fibromyalgia in people.  Insufficient dopamine can cause  Parkinsons , in which the body loose its ability to execute smooth controlled movements.   It is important to point out that we must always balance Serotonin with Dopamine.   If we just add tryptophan with out tyrosine to the diet we will drive down the dopamine neurotransmitters and loose brain voltage. 

Acetylcholine  is the  4th major neurotransmitter.   Acetylcholine  works primarily at the synapse and allows for the transmission of nerve impulses across the synapse or space between two nerves or at the neuromuscular junction.    If too little of the amino acid precursor, phosphatidlyserine , is present in the diet there will eventually develop a deficiency of acetylcholine.  Such a deficiency will cause nerve transmission to slow down and consequently communication between different parts of the brain and body will be affected   Providing   increased levels of either choline or phosphatidylserine  in the diet will stimulate the production of acetycholine in Alzheimers patients and dogs with cognitive disorders..   It  helps them to think more clearly.  Choline loading has been used with senior pets to help them remain more aware, reduce urinary incontinence and help prevent seizures. This form of therapy is known as “choline loading.”  We have had good success treating urinary incontinence and senility in dogs and cats by stimulating acetylcholine production.

Anxiety and depression problems can be treated with neurotransmitter therapy combined with one or more of the following supplements:  B vitamins especially niacinamide;  Minerals primarily magnesium;   Herbs such as valerian, St Johns Wart, kava kava, and chamomile;   Essential oils such as Lavender;  flower essences and homeopathics; laser therapy, electro crystal rebalancing and acupuncture.

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Woodside Animal Clinic is a unique, very personal,  one doctor practice where, for over 35 years, Dr. Simon has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles with both conventional and alternative medicine.  Dr.  Simon is the author  of 4 pet care books and he writes a bi monthly pet care column in the Natural Awakening magazine.   He is a past president of the Oakland County Veterinary Medical Association and has served on the executive board of both the Southeastern Veterinary Medical Association and the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association

Woodside Animal Clinic  sees pets from all over the greater Detroit Michigan area including Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Detroit, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Warren, Centerline, Clawson,  Troy, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Wixom, Brighton, Livonia, Plymouth, Commerce, Ann Arbor, Ortonville, Waterford, Union Lake,  Rochester,  Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Utica,   Romeo,  Windsor, and Toledo.

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