The importance of magnesium and trace minerals (those needed in small quantities) is often overlooked. These vital elements are required for many functions. Magnesium is involved in virtually every reaction within every cell. It is critical in heart function, nerve conduction, muscle contraction and water balance. Magnesium is the most abundant mineral found within cells. It is vital for energy delivery. Modern farming and food processing reduce the magnesium available. Sympt

In 1997, Pfizer introduced what was to become one of the most prescribed drugs in veterinary medicine, Rimadyl. As is often the case with new drugs, the package insert stated that there were no significant side effects. Nearly 3 years later, Rimadyl accounts for 33.3% of all Adverse Drug Events in animals. Obviously, the package insert was more than a little misleading. Rimadyl (Carprofen) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Many such drugs are on the market. T

Veterinarians commonly diagnose dogs and cats as having seizure disorders (epilepsy, for example.) Medicine generally considers these incurable. If the seizures occur often enough, medical practitioners prescribe an anti-convulsant drug such as phenobarbital, dilantin or potassium bromide to control them. Homeopaths are fortunate to have many more remedies available. If the homeopath chooses the correct remedy, curing seizure disorders is possible. As a holistic system, homeo

As an outspoken proponent of raw foods for pets, I am often, VERY often, asked about the risks of germs and parasites in the raw meat. This is perhaps the leading reason more people are not taking to feeding their pets this type of diet. As a homeopath, I have a different perspective on these various critters. First, some basic science. Susceptibility X Pathogen = Infection What this equation means is that there are two factors which determine whether an individual develops s

Fleas and itching - the two seem to go together like jalapenos and heartburn. I have lived almost my entire life in south Florida, so I have a lot of experience with these two subjects. Often, an itching pet will have a few fleas and everyone assumes that they are the cause. Then the poor animal is subjected to flea shampoo, flea dip, flea drops, flea pills and the list goes on. The reality is that not all itching comes from fleas and not all pets with fleas itch. One of the