In the last couple of
months, we’ve encountered hundreds of stories
recounting the losses of dogs and cats taken far too
soon.
As many pet parents unfortunately already know,
losing a companion animal is devastating. And yet,
we don’t receive the kind of emotional support from
some in our community like we might expect if we had
lost a human family member – especially from those
who have never shared a special bond with a
companion animal. Losing a companion animal is
losing a member of your family.
Anytime we suffer a dramatic loss, it is appropriate
to grieve. Your first priority should be to come to
grips with the fact that it is okay to grieve the
passing of your companion animal. Accepting the
magnitude of your loss can facilitate the process of
grieving. The more you fight to suppress your
feelings, the worse your grief can become.
Grief takes many forms, whether it’s denial, anger,
bargaining, depression and ultimately, acceptance.
While many tout the different characterizations of
grief as if they were absolute stages, these steps
should be interpreted more as a continuum of
emotion. That is, some may not experience them and
others may experience many simultaneously.
Some find the process of grief frustrating, as it is
a process of reaction. We may ask ourselves, “What
can I do to feel better?”
Those who have experienced a recent loss should take
some comfort in knowing that there are outlets for
this impulse. There are several organizations that
allow you to contribute funds in the memory of your
companion animal. Many of these groups will publish
an announcement of your gift along with a special
message of tribute. In this way, you can create a
legacy for your companion animal.
Additionally, you should be certain to actively take
care of yourself physically. Because grief takes a
toll on us physically, you should allow yourself
extra time to sleep, be sure to exercise and eat
well.
Don’t arbitrarily assign time limits to your grief.
The bottom line is -- as with most emotional
processes – it takes as long as it takes.
Above all, know that you are not alone in your
experience. Be sure to talk to other pet parents
about your loss, but be sure to spend time sharing
memories about your best times together, too.
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Every
year, we receive hundreds of
testimonials regarding the health
benefits of using our pet foods, treats
and supplements. If your companion
animal has experienced a health
transformation due to the use of
HealthyPetNet products, we’d love to
hear about it! Please email your pet’s
story to
stories@healthypetnet.com,
and be sure to include
“before-and-after” photos if you have
them. Thanks! |
 We
are pleased to announce the
formation of the
Dr.
Jane HealthyPetNet Foundation, Inc.
This non-profit
foundation is dedicated to the promotion,
establishment, maintenance and management of animal
rescue groups that are committed to rescuing abused
animals in the U.S. And Trilogy International is
donating a portion of our net profit to help support
the operations of this extraordinary foundation.
We look forward to sharing with you more about the
progress of this foundation’s important work.
To
find out how you can make a difference in the
success of this noble enterprise, call our offices
at 772-781-7278.
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In the first clinical
trial of its kind, researchers will investigate
whether dietary antioxidant supplementation can
decrease the likelihood of canine bone cancer.
Scientists will study hundreds of cancer-free adult
Rottweilers, which will be divided into groups
receiving supplements and those receiving placebos.
The nationwide study, under the direction of the
Gerald P. Murphy Cancer Foundation, will follow
these dogs over the course of the next eight years.
While the majority of studies focus on treatment,
this study concentrates on the prevention of
cancerous tumor formation. The prevention study will
seek to determine whether a potent antioxidant mix
can enhance the body’s defenses against oxidative
stress. Researchers theorize that bolstering
cellular defenses could reduce the risk of cancer
and/or improve longevity, not only for dogs but for
humans as well.
In an effort to make our
homes as safe as possible for our companion animals,
you should be aware of common household items that
can spell big trouble for our beloved dogs.
Recently, the ASPCA – Animal Poison Control Center
released the top ten items that can be toxic to
dogs. In all of the following cases, it is highly
advisable to contact a vet immediately after
consumption …
• Chocolate – Can cause excitability, elevated heart
rate and possibly seizures.
• Rat Poisons – Most rodenticides contain
anticoagulants to cause fatal bleeding. These
substances can have the same effect on dogs, as well
as possible paralysis, seizures and kidney failure.
• Ant & Roach Baits – Most of these products do not
contain enough toxic substances to cause severe
effects, but the plastic in which they are housed
can be dangerous.
• Acetaminophen – Can cause liver failure, swelling
of the face and paws, and interfere with oxygen
transport in the blood.
• Ibuprofen – Can cause stomach and kidney problems,
and possibly seizures.
• Cold Medications with Pseudoephedrine – Can cause
excessive panting due to increased body temperature,
excitability and elevated heart rate.
• Thyroid Hormones – Can cause elevated heart rate
and excitability.
• Bleach – In surface contact, can cause eye and
skin irritation, and if inhaled can cause chemical
pneumonitis.
• Fertilizers & Plant Foods – Can cause vomiting and
diarrhea.
• Paints, Polishes & Fuel Oils – In surface contact,
can cause skin irritation, and if inhaled can cause
excitability, depression, pneumonia, liver and
kidney damage.
Exposure to any of these substances can have serious
health consequences, and should be treated
accordingly.
When it comes to protecting your companion animals,
remember to safely store away all medications or
other potentially harmful items. And, just because
an item does not appear on this list does not mean
it can’t be harmful, so exercise not only caution,
but common sense.
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