Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination

Title: Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination
Author: Dorianne Schwaiger

Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination
Every year, thousands of domestic pets and wild life lose
their lives to the ravaging effects of pesticide poisoning.
Most pet lovers also enjoy gardening and the great
outdoors. Little do they know what caustic ingredients are
in the pesticides that are being sprayed on lawns and green
areas. We take for granted that most herbicides used by
gardeners or sold in stores are safe. Many name brands such
as "Weed n' Feed" and "Round Up" contain the same deadly
cancer causing ingredients that were found in Agent Orange.
Another synthetic poison found in these two well known
garden products is 2,4-D. It is also the active ingredient
found in "Killex." It can cause loss of reflex in humans
along with comas, kidney and liver failure. In dogs it is
the number one killer causing malignant lymphomas, a form
of cancer.

Sadly, just five percent of pesticides reach their target
weeds and garden pest. The rest are absorbed into our
earth, targeting our water supplies through a process
called run off or simply just dissipates into our air.
Major health damage can occur when Toxic Pesticides are
absorbed through our skin, swallowed or inhaled. When not
applied correctly, pesticides can settle on ponds, pools,
children's toys, pets left outdoors and even drift through
open windows settling on our furniture, bedding and even
our floors. This deadly poison is often tracked into our
homes by our shoes and pets paws.

We all face the continuing problem of toxic by-products
through years of pesticide residue that is in our food
supply and everyday environment. What we don't realize is
how wide spread pesticide poisoning really is. These
caustic chemicals are virtually used in all of our public
buildings including our children's schools and play yards,
restaurants, hospitals, hotels and private homes. Pesticide
abuse is used in our agriculture and forest areas.

Why are Pets Vulnerable to Pesticide Poisoning?

* Pets spend most of their time close to the ground, this
is where pesticide concentration is highest.

* Pets ingest most pesticides while grooming themselves.
Any contact with chemicals connect with their fur and paws
and is then ingested by the pet.

* Pets spend more time outside and play in heavily treated
areas.

* Pets have higher absorption rates than human systems.
Animals may be more sensitive and easily poisoned by
conditions deemed safe to people.

Signs of Pesticide Poisoning In Pets

* Excessive drooling and foaming at the mouth.

* Loss of thirst and appetite.

* Vomiting or diarrhea.

* Immune function decline.

* Convulsions and disorientation.

* Birds and fish die due to toxic runoff in our water
supply.

* Feline thyroid disease.

* Dogs contract cancer (malignant lymphoma)

What Can We Do To Stop Pesticide Poisoning?

* Adapt an alternative "green" solution for pest control.

* Enjoy your weeds and bugs. They are part of nature.

* Educate yourself about pesticides used by your HOA, Lawn
Service and immediate neighbors.

* Do not allow your pets to drink from ponds or outside
water sources - always keep fresh, clean water readily
available.

* Leash your pets, allowing them to run free is not a good
idea.

* Bathe and brush your pets often.

* Wash down your outdoor living area.

* Think Eco-conscious when dealing with your environment.

Protect yourself and your pets from synthetic pesticides by
being an educated consumer and willing activist in our
Eco-system.

About the Author:

Meet Dori Schwaiger, a well known author on Pet health &
wellness. Dori is also the owner of
http://www.tophealthspot.com , a destination on the web
with health conscious people and animal lovers alike!Shop
for all of your pets name brand products & animal
medications with exclusive money saving health coupons.

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How do I deal with a seizure or fit in my dog or cat?

Title: How do I deal with a seizure or fit in my dog or cat?
Author: Alison Grimston


How do I deal with a seizure or fit in my dog or cat?
Animal health care is so vast and complex, and the central
nervous system in particular is still largely uncharted
territory. Diseases of the nervous system are,
fortunately, rare, and sadly often severe.

The commonest neurological problems in cats and dogs are
due to road accidents and other forms of head injuries,
chemical poisoning, and infections such as rabies. Any of
these can induce fits, or seizures, as part of the picture.

Seizures (fits) tend to be seen as uncontrolled shaking,
although other sorts of fits with the dog going vacant can
also occur.

It is important to try to find the reason for the fit.
There may be signs of injury from car accident or fight.
Evidence of having ingested poison may or may not be
obvious - antifreeze with ethylene glycol is particularly
dangerous, causing seizures.

Always call or take your animal to a vet. Your vet is
essential in helping you to work out what the cause of the
symptoms are. Neurological problems are so complex that
even they may not be able to find the cause. Be guided by
your vet on management.

If your cat or dog has a seizure: Keep away from your cat
or dog's mouth, as biting may be unintentional. Try to
move your animal away from hazards. If electricity is
involved, use a stick or some other non conducting
material. It may help to put a soft cushion or blanket
under its head. If the fit lasts more than 6 minutes,
take the animal to the vet immediately. Animals can die
during prolonged seizures.

When the animal has stopped fitting it may be sleepy but
also anxious and confused. Comfort it; Rescue Remedy,
healing and massage may be helpful here. If this is
your animal's first fit, take it to the vet anyway to try
to determine the cause. Also see you vet if you have any
concerns, or there are changes to the pattern of fitting.

It is important that anyone who spends time looking after
your pet for you is aware of his or her tendency to have
fits, and how to manage a seizure if one occurs. Make sure
that your friend has a list of actions to take, as above,
as well as the emergency phone number of your vet, or a
nearby vet if your pet is being cared for further from home.

As with all illness, being calm and prepared in a crisis
makes it easier for all concerned.

About the Author:

Dr Alison Grimston is a holistic doctor and animal healer.
If you are a pet owner or therapist, sign up for her free
report on keeping your pet healthy naturally, by logging in
at http://www.TheNaturallyHealthyPet.com .

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