Question:

Thank you so much for your concern for octopuses. I have deep empathy for all animal life. I found a wormlike creature on the newspaper in my nursing home room and took it back outside to carry on with its life. I put out pet food nightly for a local opossum. I also have a lovely feline. I think it is important to do our best to help God's creatures.

B.H., Florissant, Mo Mar 27, 2012

Answer:

Did that edition of your newspaper with the stowaway from the wild also have my column in it?

Many readers will identify with your active compassion for all creatures. Children learn how to care through example. Seeing parents gently catching and releasing bugs, spiders, worms or other wild creatures -- rather than automatically killing them -- is the best education.

The importance of growing up with a companion animal such as a dog or cat is something I cannot stress enough, especially when proper parental example fosters patience, understanding and caring. Lacking such experience and example, children may suffer from what I term "animal and nature deprivation syndrome": They may grow up to have neither interest in nor respect for other living beings. For more details, see my new book, "Animals and Nature First."

When we elevate the environment and other animals to the level of equality for consideration, we elevate our own humanity.

Question:

I am writing in reference to your article about animals crying.

I have four Chihuahuas: two 7-year-olds and two 5-year-olds (they are a mother, father, son and daughter). My husband retired three years ago, and since then our dogs have bonded to him more than ever.

Every time my husband leaves the house, our 7-year-old female, Monica, sits at the back door looking forlorn and showing signs of tears. My husband recently went on a weeklong trip to Texas, and Monica sat at the back door for several hours each day, hanging her head and crying. I assume she missed my husband.

When I approached her, she gave me hateful looks and skulked off to be alone. She waited for him at the garage door, then she'd sit on his favorite chair until bedtime. Her eyes were wet until he returned. When he got home, she was ecstatic -- dancing, prancing and squealing. She demonstrates these emotions every time he is gone, whether it's for five minutes or five days. My other three dogs were not as sad as she was; I think she missed my husband more than I did.

L.G., Portsmouth, Va Mar 27, 2012

Answer:

I know that many readers will appreciate your letter confirming that some grieving dogs will get watery eyes and shed tears.

In humans, grief is recognized as an emotional disorder with varying degrees of severity, just like depression. I would make the same medical claim for animals, and I would distinguish this condition from separation anxiety, where there is often more agitation and destructive behavior.

Like many grief-stricken people, animals -- from dogs to horses to elephants -- can lose the will to live. They withdraw from social interaction, sleep more and refuse food and attempts to provide comfort and relief. Psychotropic drugs such as Prozac, injections of appetite-stimulating vitamin B-complex and physical activity and interaction with familiar, friendly animals can help ameliorate the grief.

Metaphysically, grief is a breaking of the heart or spirit, a psychological reaction to the trauma of close emotional connections being severed. This dispirited condition can lead quite rapidly to death in susceptible individuals, human and nonhuman alike, if not recognized and appropriate intervention initiated.

Question:

I recently came across your column regarding the quoted price of $400 for a sonogram for a pet. I suggest your reader get a second opinion and quote -- it might prove to be quite a surprise. Our local veterinary clinic gave my husband a quote of $60 for the same procedure.

Three years ago, we adopted an adorable 12-year-old toy Yorkie who was in very bad shape. At barely 3 pounds, she could walk only a few feet before having to stop and rest. She was so tiny we started calling her Little Bit. Immediately after getting her, we took her for a thorough check up. After two months with us, Little Bit gained 2 pounds and was running to her favorite park.

Recently I found what turned out to be a cancerous lump in Little Bit's tummy area. She had never been spayed, and we were told that she would also need to have that done at the time of the surgery or the cancer would return with a vengeance. Knowing that any surgery on a very small 15-year-old dog is extremely risky, we decided to get a second opinion. That opinion confirmed the first, and we were quoted a price of $700 to$800 for the surgeries. The surgeries were done at the clinic we always use. We never asked about the cost and were amazed when we got the bill -- it was less than $200!

I am happy to report that Little Bit survived the surgeries with no problems, like the little trouper she has always been. She is doing well and is once again running in her favorite park, though she has slowed down a tad. The best thing we ever did for ourselves was to adopt that tiny little dog.

M.A.C., Central Point, OR Mar 26, 2012

Answer:

Three cheers to Little Bit and to you for adopting such an old dog in the first place and seeing her through what sounds like breast cancer. Some dogs do have an amazing will to live, which, along with good nutrition and a strong immune system, help speed recovery from surgery and illness. But just as with human patients, prolonged hospitalization for animal patients can delay recovery. So this is avoided by enlightened veterinarians who know that instructed care in the animals' familiar home environment is less stressful, especially in terms of separation anxiety and associated fears.

If a dog's breast/mammary tumor is caught and removed early enough (before it spreads to the lungs and other organs), she will have a good prognosis. The best thing to do is spay your dog at 5 or 6 months, before her first heat.

With toy breeds such as Little Bit, special attention must be given to their teeth and gums because dental problems are common. If neglected, these problems can lead to the spread of disease to the kidneys, heart and other internal organs. Toy breeds need diets relatively low in carbohydrates and fiber.

I would like to hear from other readers who have shopped around and found very different price quotes for the same veterinary procedures. Such extreme disparities need to be addressed by state veterinary regulatory agencies.

Question:

I have four cats who get along OK -- with the exception of one. I rescued Eugenie from my neighborhood, and she is very timid and is often bullied by the other cats. I give her as much special attention as possible. She has a separate feeding area in an upstairs bathroom away from the others; I have a litter box for her in the spare bedroom, which, unfortunately, the other cats use as well.

She has started to urinate in the bathroom sink and on the counter. I could move her food to the spare bedroom and lock her out of the bathroom, but my concern is that she will find somewhere else to urinate that might not be so easy to find or clean up. Any suggestions?

M.J., Poughquag, NY Mar 26, 2012

Answer:

Try using the cat pheromone Feliway in one or two of the rooms the cats use most often. This can have a calming effect and help cats get along better.

Rubbing a moist cloth on all the cats' heads (temples and lips in particular), then wiping it on the other cats, may help. Repeat this procedure morning and evening for seven to 10 days, keeping the cloth in a plastic bag to retain the group scent.

Allow your fearful cat to continue to urinate in the bathroom sink and counter in the interim; forcing change at this time could cause your fearful kitty additional stress. Eugenie may have stress-related cystitis, so contact your veterinarian. You can take a urine sample from her deposit in the sink (keep it plugged until you get a sample) for analysis. Putting a couple drops of lavender oil under a layer of cotton where she sleeps may also prove beneficial and is a practice used in some animal shelters.

Question:

I want to thank you so much for your repeated suggestions to put dogs on a wholesome diet to get rid of itchy skin and digestive problems. After visits to more than one veterinarian who did not get my dog well after expensive tests and different medications -- including steroids, which made him anxious and overweight -- I took your advice and tried your home-prepared diet.

After a few days his bloating and occasional bouts of diarrhea stopped, and now he is a happy, active dog with a shiny coat and a much better disposition.

G.F., Alexandria, Va Mar 20, 2012

Answer:

As Hippocrates, the founding father of modern Western medicine, advised, "Let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food." This is as true for our animal companions as it is for us.

I observe with horror what many people eat and feed to their children and pets. Apparently, they see no connection to the food and obesity, allergies, behavioral problems and various other health issues from arthritis to high blood pressure and heart disease.

I would very much like to hear from other readers whose cats and dogs have shown improvements and even full recovery from illnesses (please specify) following a change in diet (also please specify). Mail or email me at the addresses provided in this column.

Question:

I just read a letter in your archives about a Bernese mountain dog who has exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). I have a 10-year-old German shepherd who was diagnosed with EPI eight years ago, and I have helped my dog live a normal life in spite of it.

There is much that owners of EPI dogs can learn to help their pets cope with EPI. Many EPI dogs suffer from a vitamin B-12 deficiency that results in dry, flaky skin. This can be rectified with injections for a period of time (although some dogs require it for their lifetime). It can take quite a long time for an EPI dog's bowel movements to return to normal, or something close to normal, which may be as good as it ever gets.

The best food for an EPI dog is a grain-free, low-fat diet that is soaked with the prescribed enzymes in water until it has an oatmeallike consistency. The soaking ensures the enzymes have permeated all the food, and the nutrients will be fully absorbed by the dog's digestive system. Additional supplements may be needed over time, but start with small amounts and gradually increase to a normal dosage if no unwanted side effects occur.

There is an invaluable support group list where owners of EPI dogs can share their experiences, concerns and treatment/dietary protocols with others -- it is K9-EPIGlobal@yahoogroups.com, and anyone can request to join the group. There are many resources available through this group. Also, there is an EPI genetic research effort under way through Clemson University in South Carolina, under the leadership of Dr. Leigh Anne Clark. Hopefully we will soon know the genetic markers of the EPI disease.

E.B., Sequim, Wash Mar 20, 2012

Answer:

Thank you for your letter.

Certain breeds have a higher incidence of pancreatic insufficiency disease, which suggests genetic factors are at play. But as with many health problems in dogs and other animals, including humans, several co-factors can play a role in the genesis of disease, including the mother's nutrition during pregnancy and the harmful side effects of vaccinations and various medications. Having a healthy "gut flora" -- the population of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system -- is of critical importance for optimal digestion and assimilation of food and for maintaining the immune system. You can read more about this in my book, "Not Fit for a Dog! The Truth About Manufactured Cat and Dog Food," which I co-authored with two knowledgeable veterinarians.

The Internet can be an excellent source of information about various animal and human health problems, but I advise against making in-home, unqualified diagnoses and treatment decisions. Have your veterinarian make the diagnosis. Later, you can discuss treatment options you may find on the Internet with the help of a support group's collective insight.

Question:

My younger sister has two Persian cats who get along fine. My question to you, and to settle an argument with her, is why are their eyes always tearing? She says it comes with the breed, so she washes their faces every day. I think they need veterinary attention -- they are freaks of nature. They could never survive in the wild.

C.K., Fargo, ND Mar 19, 2012

Answer:

In my professional opinion, the small quantity of grain alcohol in PetzLife oral care products should not pose any risks to cats and dogs who are not being treated for any diagnosed liver or pancreatic disorder. The alcohol is used as a natural preservative and antibacterial agent in this excellent formulation of natural ingredients. Used in accordance with the manufacturer''s instructions, PetzLife oral health care products are of great benefit and can even be a lifesaver: Gum disease can have fatal ramifications when left untreated and when oral health is neglected.

Question:

My younger sister has two Persian cats who get along fine. My question to you, and to settle an argument with her, is why are their eyes always tearing? She says it comes with the breed, so she washes their faces every day. I think they need veterinary attention -- they are freaks of nature. They could never survive in the wild.

N.C., Clayton, Mo Mar 19, 2012

Answer:

This is one of many chronic health problems often seen in purebred cats like Persians. They are not freaks of nature, but freaks of human creation. Their abnormally large heads often mean kittens must be delivered by cesarean section. The smashed (brachycephalic) face makes breathing difficult. It also causes susceptibility to respiratory infection and skin problems in the deep facial folds, often compounded by turned-in eyelids, which can lead to corneal ulceration and blindness. A veterinary appointment should be made immediately for these two cats if they have not been for the past six months.

I do not go to cat shows anymore because I get so upset at what I see the breeders doing. Like at dog shows, the judges applaud the deformation of many breeds. In the U.K., the veterinary profession is sounding the alarm. For details, see my new book, "Healing Animals and the Vision of One Health."

Some cat breeds have become deformed through selective breeding -- creating long limbs and narrow heads, hairlessness, folded ears and the extreme Persian face emerging in the exotic shorthair breed.

I used to lecture to cat and dog breed clubs on behavior, development, communication and holistic health. But now I am avoided like the plague because of my strong opposition to what some misguided people, playing God, are doing to alter the genetics and structure of cats and dogs without consideration for animals' health and well-being.

I urge all prospective cat owners to adopt from the local shelter, where many purebreds can be found. The creators of cats with extreme and abnormal traits may love their pets very much -- and most of them do not generate much money from sales -- but there are so many cats who need homes that one should question buying or breeding any cat, normal and healthy or otherwise.

Question:

I work all day and get home soon after 5. (I live fairly close to where I work.) I think I want a puppy. The cockapoo breeder I've chosen says it would be best to keep the puppy in a crate while I am gone. That would help house-training, too, and stop the pup from messing and chewing things while I am gone.

So should I keep the pup in the cage for the night? And will she need to stay in the crate when she is older?

J.L.C., Winston-Salem, NC Mar 19, 2012

Answer:

Please think twice about getting a puppy. Instead, consider adopting two littermate kittens.

I would like to know how many poor puppies and dogs suffer the kind of fate you are contemplating. This cruel practice of crating is widespread, as I have learned while visiting friends in an apartment complex where small dogs are allowed. Most of the dogs, apparently, are crated while their owners are at work. This is disgusting. Dogs are pack animals who need social stimulation and will suffer separation anxiety, boredom and loneliness while caged.

Having to hold urine and feces for the long hours of confinement, especially for active, growing young dogs or older dogs with kidney problems, is animal cruelty and neglect.

I have seen the results of long-term crating -- poor muscle tone, deformed limbs, splayed feet, neurotic obsessive-compulsive self-grooming, paw chewing and nervous tics like repetitive movement behaviors.

A crate should be used only for house-training pups. Leave the crate open to serve as a secure den once the dog is house-trained. Anyone working long hours should leave his or her dogs in a safe, open room -- ideally with a window -- and have a dog walker come over at least once per day. Leaving a TV or radio on can help alleviate separation anxiety and, hopefully, associated barking and destructive behavior. Stuffing hollow rubber dog toys with treats or frozen peanut butter can make time alone a little less stressful, as can the company of another dog or compatible cat.

Question:

I remember a 2009 letter from P.L. in Minneapolis, who was upset that she was not with her cat when he was euthanized. I would like to share my daughter's experience.

Last year, my daughter Leah had to make the decision to put down her 20-year-old cat, Bridget. She was in a state where she wasn't eating, couldn't get off the bed to find the litter box and was barely able to meow. After searching the Twin Cities, we found a vet who, for a minimal fee, performed the procedure at Leah's house. Leah held Bridget the entire time. The vet gave her time to mourn before he gave the first shot. He explained everything in detail beforehand. After the procedure, the vet quietly packed up and left without a word. He was a cat lover, and he had put down his family's beloved cat a few weeks earlier, so he had a lot of empathy.

This was the ideal way to experience this very difficult situation. Since this has happened, I have a lot more respect and understanding of how hard this was on the vet, also.

J.D., Coon Rapids, MN Mar 13, 2012

Answer:

I always welcome a good word for fellow veterinarians. Indeed, we do suffer the burdens of empathy, especially when euthanizing animals. I take my hat off to those who work in animal shelters, where the euthanasia of "throwaway" and unadoptable, lost and "surplus" dogs and cats is a daily event adding up to millions of lives every year across the United States.

I strongly advocate for in-home euthanasia if possible -- though not all owners are up for that emotionally. Unfortunately, not all communities are blessed with veterinarians who provide the service.

The next step in animal care is in-home hospice care for aging and sick pets. This new aspect of companion animal care needs veterinary support across the world. Hospitalizing a terminally ill animal can mean great suffering from being separated from loved ones and a familiar environment. There is also the risk of costly and unwarranted life-saving interventions -- just as we see in the care of terminally ill and dying humans, which helps to bankrupt the nation's already dysfunctional health care system. For more details, see my book "Healing Animals and the Vision of One Health" (published by CreateSpace; available on Amazon.com).