The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood: THE BLOG

IN LIVING MEMORY...

2012-01-25T11:45:00.000-08:00

Two dear friends of mine have had to start that painful journey this month, of transitioning from a physical/spiritual connection with their beloved dog to a purely spiritual one.

It can take a lot of work to lean into that wrenching pain instead of away from it, and allow ourselves to find that sacred space inside of us where the agony and ecstasy merge; where love and connection lives and can never, ever die.

Thanks to Gretchen Kuhns for this lovely poem by Henry Van Dyke, which was written on the beautiful memorial cards she sent out for her heart dog, Biskit.

To our boys, Frisbee and Biskit- we bless you in your transitions. We bless your pet parents. May your souls soar free while always staying connected to those you loved most.

“I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white
sails to the morning breeze and starts
for the blue ocean.

She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until at length
she hangs like a speck of white cloud
just where the sea and sky come
to mingle with each other.

Then, someone at my side says;
"There, she is gone!"

"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull
and spar as she was when she left my side
and she is just as able to bear her
load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.

And just at the moment when someone
at my side says, "There, she is gone!"
There are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad
shout;
"Here she comes!"
And that is dying.”

YES, I'M ASKING: WHO CUT THE CHEESE?!?

2012-01-15T14:58:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, cheese.
Delicious, creamy, convenient, tasty, easy, wonderful cheese!

Full of salt.

Full of steroids and hormones (eg: Bovine Somatotropin: synthesized growth hormones injected into cows for more milk production).

A mucous-forming nightmare to the immune system (stop eating it for a week and notice how less nasal you sound and how you're not blowing your nose as much).

Even Dr. Oz's wife, Lisa, has tweeted about the addictive chemicals in cheese and her difficulty and determination to stop eating it forever.

I saw an online recipe today for "natural" home-made dog treats. It had 3 ingredients and one of them was cheese.

Please, pet parents- DO NOT give your beloved pets cheese in any form for any reason. Or sugar. Those things are slow-acting poisons and are far more harmful to our pets than to us because their life spans are so much shorter.

They really aren't going to love you more because you feed them ingredients that are tasty and unhealthy. They have no choice but to eat the things YOU CHOOSE to give them. Why not make sure those things are only healthy ones?

If you want to make your dog really happy, take him on an extra walk this week instead of showing your love with unhealthy food.

In other words, go ahead and continue to blame the dog for cutting the cheese, but please don't feed him/her cheese anymore. Like me- commit yourself to bad puns instead of bad ingredients.

2012

2012-01-01T20:36:00.001-08:00

Loved getting this from a local pet sitter and happy to pass it on to you all:

May you have as much fun in 2012 as you can before someone makes you stop!

A SPECIAL VET'S HOLIDAY SPECIAL

2011-12-07T20:28:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gloria Dodd is an amazing long-time holistic vet and researcher in northern California. Her articles and research are cutting edge- she's the vet I mention in my book who helped me discover the highly toxic amounts of aluminum in barley- and her homeopathic remedies are ones I used with Buttons in her senior years. I just got an email announcing her 25% off holiday sale on everything from remedies to anti-radiation devices. Definitely worth a look in my opinion :-) http://www.holisticvetpetcare.net/index.htm

HOW TO TREAT ALLERGIES, KIDNEY DISEASE & CANCER

2011-10-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

Pet parents are always asking me how to treat their pets with specific diseases and conditions. What I came to understand with extreme clarity when helping Buttons heal from cancer, is that most every disease and condition is a symptom, not a cause.

They are symptoms of the body, which is created as a self-healing organism, losing its ability (for the time being) to maintain vibrant health. So- NO MATTER WHAT THE CONDITION OR DISEASE, my answer is always the same: "clear/cleanse/build".

The first step is to remove the CAUSES- the things that are burdening the body and sapping its self-healing ability! Some of these things include nutritionally empty food, chemical additives, chemical-laden drinking water, toxic chemicals in the form of cleaners, grooming supplies, air fresheners, stain removers, flea treatments, and toxic bowls, toys, and treats.

Of course, as I talk about in my book, I know there are times when circumstances call for immediate pharmaceutical or surgical action, but when I say that, I'm talking about things like when Buttons had a stroke at the age of 17 and we gave her a steroid shot to reduce the swelling in her brain and bring her far enough away from danger so I could then employ more natural support. This is not the same as 9 years earlier when the lab diagnosed cancer and the vet gave her 6 weeks to live. I knew 6 weeks was enough time to kick start her body's own natural healing response, so I said no to the surgery and chemotherapy that the vet insisted she needed to stay alive.

Next, the body must be cleansed of all residual toxins. The liver is the main storehouse of these immune-burdening chemicals. The proper use of diet, herbs and homeopathic remedies can effectively and safely cleanse the internal organs and tissue.

"Build" is the final step- supporting the body nutritionally with clean, simple, NON PROCESSED organic food, along with megadosing certain vitamins like ascorbic acid. Bodies are amazingly resilient when causes are removed and proper nutrition is introduced. When I think about the toxic, chemical soup most people (and their pets!) live in due to cleaners, air fresheners and laundry products, combined with consuming things like sugar, hormones and antibiotics in meat and dairy products, and drugs like caffeine on a daily basis, not only am I amazed at the body's ability to withstand abuse, but I'm surprised even MORE people and pets aren't developing devastating disease.

Here is a book and a film that I personally have found invaluable in more fully understanding this truly holistic paradigm of "clear/cleanse/build" versus fighting the disease and symptom-squelching:

3 Simple Steps to healthy Pets and Food Matters which is also available to stream via Netflix

I get no compensation for directing people towards either the book or the film- I just want you to stay informed and healthy! It's a different way of looking at healing, but one worth investigating, in my experience. May you and your pets have long, vibrant lives!

THE CHICAGO PET SHOW

2011-09-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

Here's s little help for Chicagoland pet parents and shelters.
Please feel free to download and print for yourself and anyone you know who's able to attend. I will be speaking several times at the St. Charles weekend on both pet loss and preventing canine cancer. My book will also be available for purchase and I'll be happy to sign and endorse it for you.
Looking forward to seeing you there and helping some shelters!

AIR = ERROR WHEN IT COMES TO KIBBLE

2011-09-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Recently I had the opportunity to "test drive" a brand new pet product. You know I am extremely hesitant to endorse anything, but I think this is something every pet parent will want to know about.

It's called the Pet Silo and its for quick, easy, AIRTIGHT dry dog food storage. So if you are still a kibble-feeder, PLEASE consider this great product to avoid feeding your dogs rancid food (see my post on this here).

If your kibble is just sitting in its bag or in a container you open at every feeding, there is an overwhelming chance that the oils in it have turned rancid. Rancid oils are a HUGE burden to the immune system and if you've followed anything I've been saying since I helped my dog's body heal itself of cancer, you know a burdened immune system leads to allergy problems, skin problems, and eventually disease...like cancer of the whatever.

If, instead of being a kibble-feeder, you have embraced a home-cooked diet for your dogs like I did with Buttons for 11 of her 19 years, guess what- this is also perfect for safely storing quinoa or millet!

Now, back to the test drive.
The first thing I really liked about the Pet Silo was that I didn't even need to look at the assembly instructions to put it together right out of the box. In fact, it took me less than 5 minutes to "build" it. I'm STILL wishing I could figure out the mp3 player I got 2 weeks ago.

Each piece was sturdy and well-made and you know those beautiful bins in the bulk section at Whole Foods? Well this is like that except larger and on legs- perfect for a big ole bag of your favorite dry dog food. (you can also modify to use on shelves or counters)

It's got the same kind of great "pull to open the shoot" mechanism at the spout- just hold your dog's bowl below it. It's easy to clean, easy to use. It's a MUCH better alternative for kibble users than anything I have seen on the market, or seen people use in their homes.

Of course, being the purist I've been accused of being, I would much prefer a stainless steel lining in the FDA approved plastic bin. Perhaps the good folks at Pet Silo will make this available in the near future, too? But believe me, keeping your kibble air-tight in this great product is an important battle for all pet parents who feed dry food to choose until that happens.

DISCLOSURE: I received no compensation for this review. Pet Silo shipped me the product free of charge for my honest evaluation.

SAVE THE DATE!

2011-08-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to have been invited to be a part of this wonderful Chicagoland event Saturday and Sunday, October 29th and 30th.

http://www.chicagopetshow.com/

Besides the scheduled talks I will be giving on holistic care, preventing canine cancer and pet bereavement, I will also be available for meet, greet and book signing at the St. Charles location. Looking forward to this great event and meeting you and your pets there! For discount coupons, please click here.

YOUR PET WANTS YOU TO WATCH THIS FILM!

2011-08-06T10:44:00.001-07:00

Some of my readers know that last summer I did a 92-day green juice fast/feast ("feast" meaning LOTS- up to a gallon a day- of fresh green juice so one is never physically hungry). It was very difficult for me psychologically for the first 4 days (my MIND wanted food- and not fruits and veggies!), but then for the most part, the rest was smooth sailing.

This was not my first juice fast. I started out years ago doing 3-4 days of only fresh juice. The summer before, I did a 7 and a 19-day juice fast. All my research told me it's important to work your body into it so as to not overload the liver, gallbladder, etc. with an onslaught of toxins that your body releases during a fast.

In each fast I experienced a lot of cleansing and healing on many different levels. During the 92-day fast, age marks, liver spots, skin tags, hip pain, shoulder pain, depression, hormone fluctuation and migraines disappeared. Energy level skyrocketed and clothes I hadn't been able to wear in decades were not only back in style, but fit comfortably.

Just like the "clear/cleanse/build" protocol I used to trigger the healing response in Buttons' body when she developed cancer is often challenging for people to embrace because it flies in the face of western medicine's much more radical, painful, and money-making, chemo/radiation/surgery, people are often skeptical about juice fasting.

If you know me at all, you know I'm a firm believer in gathering lots of information and then experiencing the things I'm drawn to that make sense to me- the ones that somehow ring true for me in my mind.

Well, here's a delightful little film (available for instant-watch streaming or dvd on Netflix) which can help you wrap your mind around the whole concept of juicing. It is fun, interesting, inspiring, and informational.

If you are experiencing any kind of physical or emotional pain or discomfort, and especially if you are managing a condition with side-effect causing pharmaceutical medications, I encourage you to take 90 minutes to watch this film. It might very well save your life. It will at least give you something interesting to think about.

*Thanks to HiimRawn for his daily inspiration and for passing along the info about this film!

TOP 3 THINGS I WOULD NEVER USE AROUND MY PET

2011-07-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

"But they're sold in my favorite store, how can they be bad?" I hear this all the time in consults.

Truth is, many commonly used chemicals have been shown through government studies to produce respiratory problems, tumor growth and brain damage in laboratory animals. And yes, they find their way into household products and into the organ tissue of our 2 and 4-legged loved ones anyway. Why? Because manufacturers put profit before well-being.

Therefore, it is up to us to be informed and vigilant. You've got a computer- it's easy to do a little research. Start googling and substituting. Things like fresh lemons and white vinegar can effectively replace many chemical-laden products. So far, I doubt lemons have ever caused tumor growth or brain damage.

That said, I would never use:

Fabric softener
Dryer sheets
Most carpet stain remover and a fourth bonus one:
Plug-in air freshener

What substitutions have you made recently to ensure a safer environment for your pet? (no product names, please)

Whole Lotta Fun!

2011-07-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who made it to my Wednesday evening class at Whole Foods Evanston/South. Your questions were wonderful. For those who weren't able to attend, we discussed some new toxic-free cleaning products (along with oldie but goodie ones like fresh lemons) and the use of Bach Flower Remedies.

Specifically, one of the attendees was concerned about the negative behavior her dog was exhibiting of late. Turns out it was her brother's dog whom she adopted recently when her brother passed away. Surely the dog, along with everyone in the family, is grieving and traumatized. In my experience, Bach Flower remedies are incredible for clearing trauma and upset from the emotional body, which in turn affects the physical body, not to mention behavior. Scroll down this page to see all the different remedies available and the conditions they address.

Hopefully I'll get a progress report from that attendee to share with you soon. Will also be posting some photos from the event in a future post. I'm looking forward to doing many more events in the Chicagoland area and meeting those of you who are local.

If you HAVE an event in the Chicago area you'd like me to be a part of, please email me at the link on the top left of this page. I love helping pet parents learn how to give their pets longer, healthier lives and will take every opportunity to do so.

FOR CHICAGOLAND PET PARENTS

2011-06-24T13:42:00.001-07:00

Hope to see you there!
Wednesday July 13th- 6:30pm
Whole Foods 1111 Chicago Avenue Evanston, Il
Call 847.475.9492 for more info

BEEN SAYIN' THIS FOR YEARS...

2011-06-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

Twenty years ago I threw away my microwave. I stopped buying rawhide chews (often formaldehyde-dipped) and using any kind of plastic containers, bowls and bottles. (can leach formaldehyde into contents especially when heated)

Today, Yahoo reported that the government has not only classified formaldehyde as a cancer-causing chemical, but noted that it's also used in many everyday cosmetic products. Don't be afraid to read this article. Be informed. Be aware. Be cancer-free and healthy.

HOW TO SAVE A LIFE IN 90 MINUTES

2011-05-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

This film talks about everything I based my "clear/cleanse/build" protocol on to help Buttons heal from cancer.
It's everything I talk about in my book that my father was into and taught me about health and healing.
It's a simple and entertaining 90 minutes explaining how the body heals itself whether that body is canine, feline, or human.

I urge you to take the time to watch the entire film. It could literally save your life. It could save the life of someone you love.

SWEET HOME CHICAGO

2011-05-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

NOW OFFERING: In-home consultations for pet parents in the Chicagoland area!

Not only, like in a phone consultation, will we go through everything in your home with a fine-tooth comb that your pets are exposed to, but the process will take place in person in the presence of your pets! This will allow me even greater ability to hone-in on and personalize which changes you make, and to better suggest the absolute easiest ways for you to make them.

WHY YOU WANT A CONSULTATION:
Because you don't ever want to hear your vet say the words, "We got the results, and I'm so sorry to have to tell you this..."
especially knowing that there are things we can easily and inexpensively do to help stack the odds against your pet ever developing a disease such as cancer.

Don't have regrets. If you schedule your consultation today, not only will you know you are doing everything you can for your pet's well-being, but a consultation (especially in-home) is fun, interesting and informative, and will leave you feeling confident, assured and empowered.

Just scroll down and read the information and directions on the left hand column of this page to see pricing and details to schedule your consultation. Some Chicago locations will also be charged a separate travel fee agreed upon in advance and due at my arrival. No travel fee to Barrington, Elgin, East & West Dundee, or Carpentersville, Illinois.

I'm looking forward to helping you and your pets have many, many years of vibrant health and precious moments!

THE PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING

2011-04-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

A conventional vet reviews The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood HERE.

Many thanks to Dr. Lorie Huston for her time, support, and open-mindedness!

ABOUT THE BOOK

2011-04-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

A recent television interview about The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood can be seen HERE. Enjoy!

A FREE LECTURE FOR TUCSON ARIZONA PET PARENTS

2011-03-20T12:21:00.000-07:00

"Help Prevent Your Pets From Ever Developing Cancer"

On Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 6:30 pm, The Holistic Animal Care Shoppe 6336 N. Oracle (SE corner of Oracle and Orange Grove) welcomes author and certified holistic pets/toxic-free lifestyle consultant, Nadine M. Rosin who will help you stack the odds against your pets ever developing a degenerative disease.

One in 4 dogs will die of cancer according to the Morris Animal Foundation. That's over 60 dogs per day in AZ. But 8-year-old Buttons didn't die when she was diagnosed - even after the vet gave her only 6-weeks to live without chemo, radiation and amputation. That's because Rosin didn't fight Buttons' cancer. Instead, she implemented a "clear/cleanse/build" protocol to help Buttons' body HEAL ITSELF. After 4 months, Buttons was cancer-free and thrived an additional 11 years to the age of 19.

This free, interactive lecture will include valuable information from Rosin's one-on-one holistic consultations followed by a question and answer period with the audience. Afterwards, she will be signing copies of her book, The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood available now for purchase at both Holistic Animal Care Shoppe locations (part of the book's proceeds the night of the lecture will go to the Humane Society of Southern AZ).

"Be it human, canine, or feline, the body's natural state is one of vibrant health," says Rosin, "But we've forgotten that because these days we know few, if any people who are vibrantly healthy. Cancer isn't something we 'catch', but rather, something the body develops when the immune system is overburdened with unnatural substances. These toxic offenders enter our bodies through our food, water, the air we breathe, what our skin absorbs and how we handle stress. Because their bodies metabolize everything so much faster than ours, our pets are even more vulnerable than we are when it comes to developing cancer, and most home environments are teeming with substances that are toxic to pets, unbeknownst to even the most aware pet parent."

Who: Certified holistic pets/toxic-free lifestyle consultant and author, Nadine M. Rosin

What: Free interactive lecture & book signing

When: Thursday, April 7, 2011 - 6:30 pm

Where: The Holistic Animal Care Shoppe 6336 N. Oracle (SE corner of Oracle and Orange Grove)

Why: To help save your pet's life!

A WORTHY CAUSE

2011-03-07T12:13:00.000-08:00

Proud to be a part of this upcoming Tucson event:

GIFTS FOR YOU FROM THE BIRTHDAY GIRL!

2011-02-11T10:23:00.000-08:00

In honor of my girl's Feb. 12th birthday anniversary, my gifts to you...

In the past year, so many people have encouraged me to RAISE my consultation prices- insisting that "Your time, experience, study and expertise are so valuable and you should charge accordingly!" But I know that in these economic times, those "standard consultant" prices are not in many people's budgets.

My main goal is and has always been to put myself out there and share Buttons' healing story in hopes of helping others. She developed cancer for the same reasons most every dog does: I'd become somewhat lax about what she was exposed to: treat/food-wise and environmentally via everyday products and items I used in our home.

Luckily, I knew enough about holistic care ("clear/cleanse/build" so the body can HEAL ITSELF) to help Buttons' body become cancer-free and thrive for an additional 11 years w/o chemo, radiation, or amputation. I believe it would be nothing but selfish for me to keep our story and my knowledge to myself when I could instead, help SO MANY other pets avoid ever even getting cancer!

Times are tough and pet parents are even more likely to switch to cheaper food, treats, and household products- most are filled with cancer-causing chemicals and additives. Now, more than ever, we need to be vigilant about ingredients. Our beloved pets' lives depend on it. Well-being shouldn't depend on economics.

In honor of Buttons' birthday, I am substantially reducing my holistic consultation prices as my way of doing my part to help, while still being able to pay my own bills.

I hope you will take advantage of this. A holistic pets/toxic-free lifestyle consultation can help you prevent degenerative disease, enormous vet bills, and heartbreaking sorrow.

IN ADDITION: every consultation paid for on Feb. 12th and 13th will receive a free pdf copy of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood as Buttons' and my birthday gift to you! Now...where's that organic, vegan cake?!!

A VALENTINE'S DAY WISH

2011-02-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

Originally written for PetWise

It's February and love is in the air! Can you FEEL it? If you've ever watched a cat lolling in the sun, or seen a dog with its head out the window of a moving car, then you know that for our beloved pets, love is ALWAYS in the air. And not just on Valentine's Day or during the Christmas season, but every day of every year - 24/7.

Their mantras are ones of enjoyment, play, adoration, and as they embody the best of our humanity - often better than we ourselves do - I believe we have much to learn from them. Unlike most of us, our four-legged apostles remember that beyond the actions of others or outside circumstances, regardless of the state of the economy or worldly events, life is supposed to be fun and savored and appreciated - it is supposed to be lived with delight in this very moment wherever we are.

I have had the honor of living with several dogs throughout my life. Two of them, I consider my heart dogs; our souls connected beyond space and time and physical death. They continue to teach me everyday the lessons of joy, living in the Now, and appreciating whatever is. All I have to do is think of them to consider that in any relationship, how I treat other people is far more important than how anything (like my hair or my house) looks. I keep them alive - those furry bodhisattvas of mine - by remembering that a smile from the heart can go almost as far as an enthusiastic tail wag.

My second heart-dog, Buttons, is the subject of my book, The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood. It is the story of how we saved each other's lives. In short - I helped her body heal itself of cancer. She helped my heart heal itself of fear. Both of us used an entirely holistic approach.

February is Buttons' birthday month. It is also the anniversary of her body's death. I will always miss her physical presence, but her love can never die. I am so deeply appreciative to continue Buttons' healing legacy by helping other pet parents, through my personal consultations, prevent their own pets from ever developing cancer or other degenerative diseases.

I want every pet parent and their animals to have at least as many happy and healthy years together as Buttons and I did (one week shy of nineteen) and will continue helping that happen at every opportunity. In the meantime, I encourage you to please take a cue from your pets and have a VERY Happy Valentine's Day…EVERY day.

MORE HEALING

2011-01-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for your patience with my not posting... my plate feels so full right now- so many close friends of mine were directly affected by the devastating events here in Tucson last Saturday:

A bodywork client of mine was a fellow church member of one of the civilians killed. My closest Tucson friend's son works in Judge Roll's office. My friend and former landlord is a close personal friend of Congresswoman Giffords' and has been part of her bedside vigil since the shooting, giving us real time/unsensationalized updates. A friend of 30 years arrived a few minutes after the shooting and took most of the photos you've seen that were picked up by the Associated Press. The lawn of Gabbie Giffords' offices, surrounded by TV News trucks and flooded with people, prayers, candles, flowers and balloons, is just a few blocks from where I live.

It's so easy to forget how connected we really are when these kinds of things happen in someone else's town. There's no forgetting when it happens in yours.

I will do my best to get a new post written and up in the next week. At the suggestion of one Facebook fan, I'm thinking info on vaccinations... please stay tuned.

NEW YEAR'S SPECIAL CONSULTATION PRICE!

2010-12-30T09:50:00.000-08:00

2010: a year FILLED with holistic consultations; I have "met" so many wonderful doggies and their pet parents. I thank everyone for all their positive feedback regarding:

how enjoyable the consults were

how easy it was to make the suggested changes

the dramatically beneficial improvements those changes have made in their pets' physical and emotional lives.

2011: Let me help you start your new year right by stacking the odds against YOUR beloved pet ever developing cancer or some other degenerative disease.

Simply book via PayPal, a 1-hour holistic consultation (regular price: $120) anytime between now and January 8th at the special price of only $45! (go to bottom of PayPal drop down menu where it says: SPECIAL PROMOTION)

We can schedule the actual consult to take place at your convenience anytime before March 1, 2011.

Save on vet bills. Create a safer, healthier home environment for your entire family. Disappear chronic conditions.
For more information on consultations, please go HERE

**This is NOT a veterinary or diagnostic service**

Happy, Healthy New Year!

MY BUTTONS AND MY BUTT

2010-12-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

Well, this post doesn't have anything to do with pet health, chemicals, or reading labels. It is, however, as the blog header states, quite literally an "all things after the book" post. The short and sweet of it is that like many of you, I spend most hours of the day at the computer and on the phone. When I'm not consulting with pet parents, I'm giving interviews or networking with pet related businesses in an effort to market my book and consultations. For me that translates into 8-10 hours/day talking about Buttons while sitting on my butt. Last week I even purchased a gel/foam desk chair seat cushion off eBay while part of me thought, "What's wrong with this picture?!"

Regardless of remembering to get up and stretch, go for a walk or run (it happens), or grab an hour at the health club I belong to (ok, that one happens... not so much) the truth is, most days I swear I can FEEL my cells that meet the chair multiplying and spreading as I sit.

As those of you who follow me on Facebook know, this past summer I completed a 92-day green juice fast. Among the many emotional and physical benefits I experienced, was a 60-pound weight loss. I knew once I weaned myself from the juice and back onto solid food, it was normal to expect a weight gain of anywhere from 6-12 pounds. As the weeks passed, that happened, and lately I've noticed that as more time passes, a few more pounds are starting to creep back on. Unacceptable.

So I reserved a few walking dvd's from the library in the hopes of being inspired to spend some time on the treadmill that gathers dust in my living room. I'm willing to admit to you that 2 of them became overdue and required I pay a fine and return them, before I watched either one. Chalk it up to my graciously supporting my local library, which I'm happy to do.

But none of that was preventing my ever-widening posterior from changing course and avoiding an unwanted destiny. Then the last dvd I'd reserved became available. Only when I went to pick it up, I found that it wasn't a dvd, it was a book: Move a Little, Lose a Lot by Dr. James A. Levine.

That evening I devoured the entire book (better than an entire box of Trader Joe's Christmas cookies, right?) which raises awareness about how little the average person moves their body during a day anymore. When you think about it, as the book goes on to say, nearly every new convenience item to hit the market robs just a little more movement from our lives. Not only are most of us spending our work (and leisure) time sitting at the computer, but then we sit in our cars to do errands, look for the closest parking space, and finally flop on the couch at night with the remote control to relax. Even using an electric can opener instead of a manual one is an issue when combined with every other appliance and convenience.

Enter, the stand-up and treadmill work stations, which Dr. Levine says are saving the lives of people tethered to their computers/desk chairs 8 or more hours/day. I walked from the couch to my desk and sat searching online. Lots of great articles, videos , and testimonials all with rave reviews. People feeling better, with more energy, weight loss, brain function and far less fatigue, all from walking while they work. But I didn't want to spend the $500 minimum to purchase the computer desk that would fit over my treadmill, so I got up, went for a walk around the block and got my creative juices flowing.

To make a long story end, I moved some furniture around including putting the hutch of my desk on the far end of the kitchen island with the treadmill moved up against it. My 20" monitor is now at the perfect height and distance while I stand on my treadmill. A quick trip to Home Depot (I drove) and a nice piece of scrap wood (they cut it to my specifications for free) and 51 cents later, and I now have the perfect treadmill work station.

I can't believe how easy this is. Typing is a breeze. Dr. Levine says just walking 1-1.5 mph while at your computer will translate to a 25-30 pound weight loss per year, not to mention the benefit to joints, lungs, etc. Yesterday I walked 5.5 miles without even noticing. I walked a half mile while writing this post. Actually, standing at my work station with one hand on the mouse, I kind of feel like I'm on Jeopardy! "I'll take 'Goodbye Twitter Butt' for $400, Alex."

And the answer is: anyone want to buy a hardly used gel/foam desk chair seat cushion?

Caring For Your Senior Dog

2010-12-03T19:55:00.000-08:00

By Nadine M. Rosin For The Dog Files

My greatest wish, is that every pet parent is lucky enough to someday have to face the issue of senior canine care. When my own dog, Buttons, was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 8, the vet referred to her as a senior dog. Not only was I unwilling to lose my beloved canine to an insidious disease, but I remembered as a child, dogs commonly living into their late teens. So, 8-years old… middle-aged? Maybe. But senior citizen? Definitely not!

How I implemented an intense holistic cleansing and nutritional regimen to successfully heal the cancer without the vet’s prescribed treatment of chemotherapy, radiation and amputation, is a whole other story. This article is about senior canine care. Since Buttons not only survived the cancer, but thrived for an additional 11 years, until passing peacefully of old age at 19, I am blessed to have some life experience with a canine elder.

Of course, regardless of age, a pure, clean diet and chemical-free environment are essential for a strong immune system. Dogs metabolize everything so much faster than we do-whereas our bodies can endure a certain amount of toxic abuse for 40 or 50 years before retaliating, a dog’s body will start showing disease in 5-7 years. In my experience, it’s wise to take note of what chemical exposure there is in your own home via often overlooked things as cleaning products, laundry products, and air fresheners.

Past a certain age, supplements start taking on an even greater role and I encourage every pet parent to do their own online research of the many available choices. Personally, I had a lot of success with Yucca Extract to ease any joint stiffness or swelling Buttons had. Yucca is a natural steroid with no negative side effects and is easy to mix in food. Also, after much reading on its use in Germany and Italy on human stroke victims, I began using Alpha Lipoic Acid to help with any symptoms of CDS (doggy Alzheimer’s).

The last 3 years of Buttons’ life, I was very careful to keep a steady routine, not move any furniture, and basically keep everything in her world as predictable as possible. When the time came, we experimented with different brands of diapers. For her 18th birthday I bought a cushy, fold-up baby stroller to take with us on hikes for when she got tired. At one point, due to her aging eyesight and cognitive function, I covered the sharp edges of our furniture with foam.

Ok. Now here’s the hard part- the one that isn’t so comfortable to read, but the part that is, in my opinion, essential. Take lots and lots of photos and video- they will help comfort you through the grieving process when the inevitable happens. When Butts was 17, I bought a bunch of disposable cameras. Every time I filled one up with pictures of her, I’d put it in a box in the back of my closet. It wasn’t until months after her passing that I began having them developed, one by one. What a comfort it was to have new photos of her even after she’d gone.

Take a day here and there away from your busy life to shut out the rest of the world and really connect deeply with your animal’s spirit- to consciously and uninterruptedly just BE with this unconditionally loving soul who’s been such a deep and delightful part of your life. Believe me, there will come a time when you will be so glad you did.

Do any research about what your choices are and how you will handle the details of your dog’s body after their passing. It’s so much easier to think clearly and gather facts well before the day you are thrown into that gut-wrenching grief.

Most importantly, as much as you can, treasure each moment for what it is- find the joy in it, rather than missing what was or fearing what’s to come. I mean, our dogs never stop teaching us how to do just that, right? Having a senior canine can be so precious and such a profound learning experience. Your canine may not be bounding along the beach or scampering up the trail any longer, but your relationship will be as priceless as a rare, old cognac, and by then, you’ll undoubtedly be finishing each others sentences, too.

SWEET MEMORIES SET IN STONE

2010-10-26T15:36:00.000-07:00

I am continually blessed with wonderful doggies and pet parents coming into my life via The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood. One of those incredible pet parents is Jodi Jarvis-Therrian, a passionate artist and animal lover who contacted me through Facebook as she was reading Buttons' and my story.

When she finished the book, Jodi shared her deeply moving experience of the read in a beautiful email and then invited me to view her website where I could see examples of her custom-created, hand-made memory stones. Jodi's care and flare with color, shape, and effect was lovely and I was thrilled when she requested I send her a bit of Buttons' fur and some of her ashes so she could fuse them into a gift pendant for me.

While my precious package made its way to Jodi's door, she plied me with questions: what size pendant did I favor, what shape, what colors did I love, and most importantly, what did I feel would best represent Buttons where those things were concerned? The process left me feeling very special and cared for- she obviously wanted to "get it just right" for me and Buttons.

My photography doesn't do it justice- but here's a photo (double click on photo for close-up) of my wonderful Memory Stone by Jodi. I love that some of the black in it is Buttons' fur. I love that some of the white is her ashes. I love that it was made with such respect, love and care.
I have no doubt that Jodi brings herself in this way to every piece she creates with every person. She also makes sun catchers, pocket stones and key chains- each piece unique and fashioned with your loved one's hair, fur, and/or ashes. I'm sure your experience with her will be as heart-warming as mine was.
*I have no business affiliation with Jodi Jarvis-Therrian or MemoryStonesByJody wahtsoever*

WHEN IT COMES TO KIBBLE- YOU CAN TELL A BOOK BY ITS COVER

2010-10-18T10:59:00.000-07:00

Awareness is a result of questioning. Those of you who've read the new edition of my book and other posts on this blog know I encourage intense label reading (in every store- of every product) and consumer research.

Personally, I'm an advocate of home-made pet food. I like the feeling of buying individual ingredients and doing preparation in my own kitchen as a way to have a little more quality control. Buying my own organic turkey, organic beans, whole grains & locally grown veggies, preparing them in my own stainless steel and iron pots and pans, adding my own informed choice of superfoods and nutrients gives me a more satisfying sense of responsibility, influence and peace of mind regarding a pet's well-being.

But for those of you who buy kibble- please keep in mind not only the ingredients and processing of the product you're buying, BUT ALSO THE PACKAGING!

Many pet food companies keep their profits up and costs down by using lower quality, unlined paper bags that allow air-flow. This can translate into oils and animal meals in the kibble becoming rancid. By the time the food travels from manufacturing plant, to distributor, to store shelves, and finally your kitchen, its contents- however high quality it started out- may have already lost any semblance of nutritional value, AND may already be turning rancid.

Call the company that makes the kibble you buy. Ask if the packaging they use is plain paper (if so, what's the cc air flow) or a barrier packaging. If lined- what is it lined with- something you want your pets' food to be absorbing?

Also keep in mind how you store it in your home. Is it continuing to spoil due to exposure to air flow through the bag or is it now sitting in a plastic bin leaching petroleum based chemicals? Why not consider a stainless steel bin to hold your pet's food?

As a pet parent who went through the horror of my dog's cancer diagnosis and also the miracle of aiding her holistically so her body could heal itself, I'll say it over and over: we are what we eat and so are our pets. Their life spans are short enough as it is- let's not make them shorter by overburdening their immune systems with low-quality food and chemicals. There's so much we can do that's simple, inexpensive, and highly effective in preventing disease. Why fight cancer? There's so much we can do to avoid it altogether.

THROUGH A DOG'S EAR™ and EMOTIONAL TOXINS

2010-10-02T19:01:00.000-07:00

Those of you who've read The Healing Art Of Pet Parenthood have a clear understanding of how important a non toxic environment is for the health of our pets- not only when it comes to chemical toxins, but emotional ones as well!

You've heard me describe my own experience of my dog "shunting" for me; about how I and many others believe that because of their great sensitivity, our heart dogs will often take on and help shoulder some of our own illness and emotional trauma. Point being, if you're stressed-out, chances are your dog is, too.

I do not believe in symptom-treating, and feel it is always, first and foremost, important to find and remove the cause of physical or emotional stress/burden/breakdown in the body. That said, if your dog is stressed-out, whether from an outside source such as thunder, or from your own emotional stress in the home, this product can help.

It's a musical CD series entitled, Through a Dog's Ear™-clinically tested music for dogs, created by musician, pet parent, and graduate of The Juilliard School, Lisa Spector. If you go to her website, you can read about the extensive, interesting research and study gone into creating this beautiful, scientifically-based music. You can also listen to some samples, buy the CD or purchase and download files.

After finding me on Facebook, Lisa was kind enough to send me a CD (volume 2) requesting my review. Those of you who visit here often know I don't usually review and seldom recommend products - that more often I encourage every pet parent to do their own research and decision making when it comes to the care of their pets. But since Lisa hails from Half Moon Bay, CA, right up the road from Buttons' and my old stomping grounds of Santa Cruz, I made an exception.

I don't currently live with a dog- my regular blog readers know why- but I DO have neighbors with dogs: noisy, barking dogs. Of course, they only bark when my neighbors aren't home, so last time they went out for the evening and the dogs began their nervous, anxiety barking, I took the opportunity to pop the CD in the stereo, turn up the volume and open my windows. About halfway through the very first track the dogs fell silent and I was sold.

But for the sake of this review, I took the test a little further. Again, readers of my book know that one of the things I do for a living is therapeutic bodywork. Last week, for my (human) bodywork clients, I played Through a Dog's Ear while they received treatment. Several fell asleep on the table, including ones who normally want to talk throughout their session. One client enjoyed the CD so much, that I explained to her what it was and lent it to her to try at home on her own dog. She happily reported back that it visibly relaxed her pooch who has been rather hyper from storms of late.

So with 5-stars and a big thanks to Lisa for creating such a lovely, non toxic product, I encourage pet parents to run from things like doggy prozac (don't EVEN get me started) and instead, give the Through a Dog's Ear series the serious consideration it deserves for the well-being of your pet.

"One of the Greatest Love Stories Ever Written"

2010-09-17T11:42:00.000-07:00

"I began reading The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood and literally could not do anything else until I finished it.

It is the most beautiful and engrossing story of unabashed love and devotion, personal growth and selfless kindness, trust and healing between a woman and her canine daughter, Buttons.

The touching bond that Nadine and Buttons share serves to heal them both on many levels throughout their physical life together and beyond.

Their story is a testament to all of us to look beyond the appearance of separation between ourselves and the animals that bless our lives. It also serves to substantiate the value and effectiveness of natural methods of healing. This beautiful story will make you laugh and cry and leave you feeling all the better for having experienced it."

~ Stephanie Crain

I was delighted to find Ms. Crain's review recently posted on Amazon.

Although the new edition (May 2010) of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood includes even more reference information on the specific holistic techniques I used to help heal Buttons' cancer, and exactly how to lean into grief in order to embrace its precious gift, it seems my original intention of offering a novel-like read remains unaltered.

Please consider gifting a copy to all your family members and friends. Even if they are not pet parents... who doesn't appreciate a good love story?!?

Is Your Pet a Bag Full of Chemicals?

2010-08-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Pet parents are always asking me what I think the best pet food is. An important question for sure, as we are what we eat, regardless of species. Ultimately, a body is only as healthy as the food it is made up of.

My answer is always the same: do some research so you can make an informed choice for yourself and your pets. A good place to start is here.

Personally, I feel best when I keep it simple and have the most control over individual ingredients. For me, that means shopping at my local health food store and home-cooking from scratch, 2-3 organic, all-natural ingredients (organic, free-range ground turkey, organic quinoa or millet, grated raw veggies) and adding a few very high quality, clean (no additives, fillers, or flavorings) supplements (I've had great success with Azmira Sea Supreme and Mega-pet Daily).

Please take the time to be informed about what your pet is consuming so they don't end up being a bag full of chemicals. Remember, even processed food labeled "all natural" can be deceiving. In addition, every consequent treatment hinges on the foundation built by diet as well-respected herbalist, Michael Tierra reminds us,

"Diet is the essential key to all successful healing. Without a proper balanced diet, the effectiveness of herbal treatment is very limited. With the appropriate eliminative or balanced diet, herbal treatment will prove itself to be effective where no medicine will work and will often be faster than the quick but temporary relief of Western drugs."

~The Way of Herbs
Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D.

PET HEALTH IN A NUTSHELL

2010-07-09T10:18:00.001-07:00

THE BASICS:

the body was created by nature. What is natural to the body is what allows the body to thrive. Start introducing unnatural elements, and the body has to start using its "thriving energy" to overcome the unnatural elements and survive. Too many unnatural elements and the body starts losing the battles. Over a long enough period of time it loses the war.

More simply put:

GARBAGE IN:

things like processed food, chemical laden tap water, non-organic organ meats, chemical-dipped rawhide, plastic toys & bowls, chemical cleaners & laundry products, chemical air fresheners, outdoor lawn and garden chemicals, over-vaccinating, chemical flea products, too many pharmaceutical drugs and antibiotics, over exposure to alcohol-based perfumes, colognes and skin care products, emotionally negative, stressful environment

EQUALS

GARBAGE OUT:

things like allergies, skin problems, fatty tumors, cancerous tumors, organ degeneration, behavioral problems, fur loss, poor digestion, premature aging, disease, premature death

P.S. Same is true for human bodies

P.P.S. The new edition of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood has more details of how I cleared Buttons' inner and outer environment as part of her healing from cancer. Available now on Amazon

ARE YOU AS SMART AS A RAT?

2010-07-03T17:27:00.000-07:00

By Nadine M. Rosin written for The Dog Files

Many years ago I heard that the behavioral science department of a major university did the following study:

They built a rectangular maze that consisted of one straight pathway (we’ll call “A”) with six straight perpendicular pathways or rows leading off of it (rows one through six). At the end of row number six only, they placed a piece of cheese. Everyday they’d put a rat in the maze at the point in pathway A where it opened to row number one. Everyday the rat would run up and down rows one through six until he found the cheese.

Eventually, the rat learned that the cheese was always at the end of row six and when put in the maze, would ignore rows one through five and go directly to row number six. The researchers let this continue for thirty days and then they moved the cheese to the end of row number two. They put their rat in the maze. As usual, the rat ran immediately to and down row number six but this time- NO CHEESE! The rat kept running up and down row number six but of course, the cheese was not there.

The conclusion of the researchers? The difference between humans and rats is that eventually the rat will try going down a different row in search of the cheese. We, on the other hand, are far more subject to being stubborn creatures of habit, even when we know it is not in our best interest.

Through the years, I’ve done my best to remind myself of this story. It’s my way of trying to keep my mind open to cutting edge information, new ways of thinking about things and new paradigms. It’s helped me in many ways: moving on from situations like jobs or relationships that were no longer healthy or growing, changing eating habits or products I used – basically anything I knew I could improve but for the most part, was also comfortable with or used to.

It is with that in mind that I encourage you to embrace change when it comes to the food and products you use for yourself and your dogs. Just because something has been sold in stores for years doesn’t mean it’s safe. It is more likely to mean that the manufacturer has a huge advertising budget. It really is up to us as consumers to take the time and do a little research of our own. It’s not difficult.

For instance: take a look at some of the ingredients listed on your moisturizer. Does it contain methylparaben, ethylparaben, or propylparaben? Now Google any one of those. You’ll find that parabens are commonly used preservatives included in countless products since the 1920’s. Recent studies have found that repeated exposure can cause cancer, developmental/reproductive toxicity, allergies, endocrine disruption, and organ system toxicity. Bad enough to be rubbing into your own skin on a daily basis, but how many times a day does your dog lick that skin on your face or hands?

Same goes with perfumes and colognes that are alcohol-based- they are full of potentially toxic chemicals. Ever notice how some people seem to be marinated in scent? It’s because many of the ingredients in those scents actually create addictive pathways in the brain and the “user” can no longer smell it in small amounts. It’s comparable to an alcoholic or drug addict needing more and more to get off.

So what are some alternatives? (is there cheese down a different row?) Clean is sexy. Pure castile soap also comes in peppermint, lavender and almond. Essential oils are wonderful, though some in large doses can be toxic to birds and cats, so again, a quick Google can help you out there.

For moisturizer, I use pure shea butter on my face. I buy it in a small tub. It’s scent-free, effective (use a little and rub in well to avoid it being greasy), inexpensive, and natural (make sure you’re buying pure shea butter not one processed with additives. It will say on the label. If it doesn’t- don’t buy it). As far as body and hand moisturizer, once I started eating more fruits, vegetables and omega-3 rich foods, I no longer needed any other moisturizer (and I live in the desert!). All of these items can be found in most natural markets and health food stores.

I hope this has encouraged you to take a few simple steps to becoming more ingredient conscious for the sake of both you and your pet. And by the way… all metaphors aside, as delicious as it is, I would never feed cheese to my dog. It’s extremely mucous-forming which is hard on the immune system and is usually made with milk full of growth hormones (BST- Bovine Somatotropin: synthesized growth hormones injected into cows for more milk production) and antibiotics. Carrot sticks are a much better treat.

A New Way of Letting Go

2010-06-28T10:27:00.000-07:00

Discussing a new way of letting go and healing in this interview airing Tuesday, June 29 11am PST as I talk with astrologer, CA Brooks

IN REVIEW: 2nd Edition now available!

2010-04-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Highly Recommended for all Pet Lovers!, February 4, 2010

By	Rhonda Tedesco "Rhonda" (NJ, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood (Paperback)

After reading the book and having done a consult with author, Nadine M. Rosin (see link to her blog from "about the author" page), I can truly say she has made my 2 dachshund babies so much more healthy! I actually noticed that once I started using her recommendations my 11 year old's health and looks improved immensely....ie...he was missing hair on his tail for years and the vet chalked it up to some type of dermatitis and after changing his diet, and getting rid of toxins in my home (which I didn't realize were toxins) his hair has grown back!!! I LOVED having this consult and cannot thank Nadine enough for all her valuable information she shared with me! I highly recommend anyone that loves their babies to purchase this book and have a consult with her...it is truly worth every penny!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

An Emotionally Moving Masterpiece, January 17, 2010

By	Beth Temple-holmes (Arizona) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood (Paperback)

The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood
As a Pet Loss Counselor, I have been searching for just the right book to recommend to my clients. Ms. Rosin has created a masterpiece with her book, The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood. She has tenderly and honestly captured the stages of grief that we all experience when we lose a beloved pet. Her words allow pet parents to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are understood, accepted and loved in their time of bereavement. And she offers hope to all pet parents that we will find our way back to our lives having learned, and grown, and experienced a love greater than many humans could ever imagine was possible.
~Beth Temple-Holmes, RN,
Certified Pet Loss Counselor

My 1st Consult With A Famous Canine!

2010-04-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

She's the most famous canine blogger in Canada and I got to talk with her mom! Here's what Sadie Shih Tzu had to say about that consultation:

The talk that may have just saved my life

When my person gets ready in the morning she squirts herself with Gap’s Heaven perfume.

It smells lovely.

But she keeps it in the kitchen.

Which is about one foot away from my water bowl.

Guess what happens to all those little ‘Heaven’ particles? They float around the kitchen but mostly land in my water bowl.

That’s no good.

Hey, if you want to feed me poison put it in my food bowl.

My person had a very long talk with a special lady who told her about the perfume thingy.

Miss Nadine

Nadine M. Rosin is a holistic pet/toxic-free living consultant, pet bereavement facilitator, researcher, speaker, and author of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood: a true story about the person-animal bond, healing canine cancer naturally, and an empowering new take on the grieving process when a beloved animal passes away.

Woo! Thems big long words for a doggeh.

Like I said, my person spoke to Nadine to understand ways to help me live toxin-free. She’d never thought twice about the perfume thingy but her talk with Nadine made her realise she was doing some dumb stuff which can be easily fixed.

It’s amazing what stuffs persons can do to give us doggehs happy lives.

To read the entire post and be a part of Sadie's wonderful world please go to HER BLOG

Wholesome Pet Solutions PART 2

2010-03-07T21:49:00.000-08:00

PART 2: A few months ago, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by yet another wonderful pet parent: Debbie Guardian, founder of OPIE & DOXIE/Wholesome Pet Solutions. Here is a little bit about her and our conversation together. Enjoy!

How and when did you realize that Buttons was suddenly thriving, and that her cancer seemed to have “reversed?”
For 4 months after her initial diagnosis, Buttons was getting different combinations of cleansing herbs, tinctures, and homeopathic remedies every few hours throughout the day. It was at that 4-month mark that I realized from her shiny coat and boundless energy, that I now had a healthy, 9-year old puppy on my hands! She thrived for an additional 11 years and the cancer never returned. She died peacefully, at home in my arms, of old age exactly 1 week prior to her 19th birthday.

I can’t even imagine how I will go on when my Opal and Dixie leave this earth. Yet, you survived losing Buttons, who was as much the center of your universe as my girls are to mine. How did you survive, day-to-day, without her by your side? What helped you through your healing process? And, do you ever really heal?
Wow, Debbie, it would take an entire book to answer that question...oh, wait! :) The last third of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood is everything I went through after Buttons passed. Since I could find no pet loss books that fully addressed the depth of my pain, I decided to write one. Many things helped me through the healing process as I describe in the book: music, journaling, movement, meditation and mostly, communing with Buttons’ spirit. Even Einstein said that you cannot get rid of energy- that it can only change form.

So I figured out ways to tune into that finer vibration: physical energy is dense and observable with our 5 physical senses. Spiritual or soul energy, if you will, is accessible through our hearts when our minds are quiet enough. Who hasn’t had a “feeling” from time to time that could not be “explained”? I believe that what we as human beings know compared to what there is available to know, could fit on the head of a pin. That said, physically, I miss Buttons everyday and always will, but I have found a peaceful place for that pain and seldom focus on it. Instead, I am focusing on getting the word spread about this book in the hopes of it helping as many other dogs and pet parents as possible.

What would you like readers to take away from your book?
Even though the book is in narrative form and reads like a novel, it has a 3-fold mission:

Helping pet parents realize we may be unconsciously contributing to the skyrocketing increase of cancer in our pets by unknowingly creating highly toxic environments in our homes.
Providing comfort, camaraderie, and validation for pet parents experiencing the devastating loss of a beloved pet
Helping to remove the words, “It’s just a dog/cat” from the lips of non pet parents everywhere

In addition, I want pet parents to feel proud and open about the deep bonds they have with their pets.

In my fund raising speech for animal non profits, I often say that our animals are like furry Buddhas, embodying the best of our humanity and here teaching us that life is supposed to be enjoyed and in the moment, regardless of circumstances, other people’s opinion, or economic climate.

One of my favorite emails from a reader was from a lady who’d recently lost her 13-year old Bichon. In her 5th week of deep grief, her grown sons insisted she “get over it already” and/or “get another dog.” The woman’s reaction to her sons was to feel even more pain, anger and isolation. A few weeks later, she came across my book. Immediately after finishing it, she went onto Amazon.com and had a copy sent to each of her sons. She promised them that if they both read the book as soon as it was delivered, she would never again mention her grief around her beloved dog. Well, a week later, her sons came by with flowers and family photos the Bichon was in and apologized profusely to their mom saying that after reading The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, they now understood what she was really going through. They said they would support her in any way they could for however long her grieving lasted.

My greatest hope is that the book goes on to help many, many pet parents and non pet parents, alike!

Thank you so much for sharing Buttons with us, as well as your beautiful relationship with her.
Thank YOU, Debbie, Opal, and Dixie!

For those of you who have not yet read Nadine’s book, “The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood,” whether or not you have ever lost a pet, I encourage you to not only read the book, but to watch the video on the homepage of Nadine’s site.

TO ALL MY WINTER FRIENDS:

2010-02-25T09:21:00.000-08:00

Just heard on the news that they're predicting another 2 feet of snow...
Stay warm & dry, y'all!

TOP 10 REASONS WHY YOU WANT TO ATTEND BLOGPAWS 2010:

2010-02-20T11:09:00.000-08:00

Twitter and Facebook are all abuzz about
the upcoming (April 9,10)
BlogPaws 2010

the first-ever pet bloggers conference, where more than 250 bloggers, writers and companies passionate about pets will come together for networking, learning and fun in Columbus, Ohio.

Here are the top 10 reasons why YOU want to attend:

Number 10: Hundreds of pet enthusiasts who love animals as much as you do

Number 9: Blogging pros there to help you in person

Number 8: Andrea Arden, star of Animal Planet's, Underdog to Wonderdog, is Saturday's keynote speaker

Number 7: You look better in person than on your Twitter avatar

Number 6: Your pets can come, too

Number 5: More fun than a class reunion (this is the FIRST annual- you can't possibly be older or heavier)

Number 4: You'll leave with new friends, powerful skills, and confidence on how to boost your blog traffic & monitization

Number 3: This is business and social networking on steroids

Number 2: Columbus is the new Vegas

AND---

The Number 1 Reason Why You Want To Attend BlogPaws 2010: Michael Vick won't be there

What Does "Holistic" REALLY Mean?

2010-02-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

Originally written for and reprinted here
with permission from: The Dog Files

What Does "Holistic" REALLY Mean?
by Nadine M. Rosin for The Dog Files

As the rate of canine cancer continues to skyrocket, so does our passion for battling it and finding a cure. But when this terrifying disease threatened to steal my own beloved canine from me, in my vets eyes, I did the equivalent of burning my draft card and moving to Canada.

Because of its dire consequences, the tumor biopsy was done twice, and my 8-year old dog, Buttons, was diagnosed with virulent carcinoma. The vet insisted that without immediate amputation, chemotherapy and radiation, Buttons would be dead in 6 weeks. After an emotional 24-hours of intense soul searching, I instead adopted the alternative medical philosophy I had been exposed to as a child- that prevention was the best cure and one should focus on the cause of disease, not the symptoms. Ignoring the vet’s advice, I immediately launched my own massive research campaign deep into the world of holistic medicine.

I soon came to learn that “holistic” didn’t mean symptom treating with natural remedies in lieu of pharmaceutical drugs. It wasn't about squelching the symptoms or waging war against cancer with alternative treatment. Instead, it meant addressing the possible causes: food, treats, cleaning supplies, flea treatments, toys, rawhide chews, and the emotional environment we were living in, to name just a few. It meant clearing my home of all possible toxins, cleansing Buttons’ entire system, and then giving her the proper nutritional support so that Buttons’ body could do what a chemically unburdened body does naturally: HEAL ITSELF.

Our pets metabolize everything much faster than we do. Whereas our bodies can endure a certain amount of toxic abuse for 40 or 50 years before retaliating, a pet's body will begin showing disease as early as 4-7 years.

I believe a holistic approach starts with our being more conscious consumers. Just because something is sold off a grocery store (or even a health food store) shelf, does not mean it's safe in the long run. We all know that money, not well-being, is the bottom line in our consumer market. Manufactured food and other products aren’t tested for a person's, or even a pet's life span, before being approved, advertised and sold. Think about Teflon, DDT, aluminum pans, Red Dye #2, lead paint. Now take a moment to google "dryer sheets toxic" or "parabens cancer" and then go read the labels on your skin care products, make-up, and laundry products. Please don't wait for a devastating cancer diagnosis of someone you love to be your wake up call.

The next step in Buttons' and my healing process was clearing her body of all residual toxins. To do this, I used a number of different homeopathic remedies, herbs, and tinctures. Buttons' diagnosis came in 1992 when holistic vets were scarce. Today, that's not the case. I would encourage others to find a holistic vet that adheres to a true holistic regimen of clear/cleanse/build, rather than just symptom treating with natural remedies.

Because a holistic approach means addressing one's life as a "whole", as part of our healing process, I had to also consider Buttons' emotional environment. Not surprisingly, her cancer developed during one of the most painful times of my life, as I dealt with a broken marriage engagement. I was torn apart, hemorrhaging emotionally, and on a good day, horribly depressed. Although I continued to care for Buttons as devotedly as ever, I was doing it all with a shattered heart.

I have heard it said that our animals often shunt energy for us, and no doubt, Buttons was feeling my pain in every cell of her own body. When I refer to "our" healing process that is exactly what I mean. She's the one who got the remedies squirted down her throat, and I'm the one who had to go deep into my heart, and for the sake of my beloved canine companion, do some hard, healing work.

The final third of our holistic protocol involved nutritionally fortifying Buttons' own immune system. Remember, the body's natural state is one of radiant health. When supported properly, that is where it will gravitate. I threw out the prescription dog food from the vet. I began home cooking pure, simple, organic ingredients for her meals and treats. I supplemented with a few natural superfoods.

There are numerous web sites today where one can quickly educate oneself on the dangerous ingredients in most commercial pet food including several brands that are advertised as "all natural" and "organic". Spend an hour reading- it could translate into many additional years with your own beloved animal.

My sweet girl, Buttons, went on to thrive cancer-free for another 11 years to the age of 19. My own toxic-free lifestyle and consultation services are only a small part of her profound and loving legacy.

TOXINS IN THE HOME?

2010-01-30T09:17:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by yet another wonderful pet parent: Debbie Guardian, founder of OPIE & DOXIE/Wholesome Pet Solutions. Here is a little bit about her and our conversation together. Enjoy!

"Like many of you and your own pets, my life revolves around my girls, Opal (Opie) and Dixie. They are the first ones I see each morning when I rise to take them to the park, and the last ones I see each night as I crawl under the covers, wondering if there’s a chance they won’t hog the bed. They bring nothing but the best to my life and it’s only fitting that I would want nothing but the best for theirs. This is why I’ve created Opie & Dixie® Healthy Pet Solutions… All-natural nutritional products and grooming treatments made right here in the U.S.A. for the well-being of both your pets and mine."

Mon 09.07.09

"If you’ve read between the lines of a few of my blogs, you’ve already gathered that I have a profound interest in the care of senior animals, special needs animals, and animals with cancer. I recently had the opportunity to chat with Nadine M. Rosin, pet parent and author of “The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood.

Nadine’s beloved 8-year-old dog, Buttons, was diagnosed with cancer in 1992. She was told that without amputation, chemotherapy and radiation within 48 hours of having received the diagnosis, Buttons would only have weeks to live. Deciding to bypass that path in favor of holistic care, Nadine set out on her mission, making simple changes to Buttons’ diet and environment, and healing her with herbs, tinctures and homeopathic remedies. Cancer-free, Buttons passed away peacefully of old age, in Nadine’s arms, a week before her 19^th birthday.

Here, I share with you Nadine and Buttons’ amazing story.

Hi, Nadine,
Thanks so much for speaking with me about your heartwarming journey through Buttons’ cancer, healing, passing, and, lastly, your continued, spiritual connection to her.
Thank you, Debbie, it’s great to talk with you, thanks for having me!

Buttons reminds me of Opal in so many ways! I don’t think I have to tell you how much I cried as I watched the video; not only tears of sadness, mind you, but tears of joy for the love and happiness that Buttons brought to your life, reminding me of the love and happiness that Opal and Dixie bring to mine.

How was Buttons' cancer discovered?
One day I found a hideously ugly, red, horn-rimmed tumor at the base of her tail. It was terrifying. I rushed her to the vet and had him do a biopsy.

What were the symptoms that alerted you to the fact that there might be something wrong?
I was caught completely by surprise. However, in retrospect I saw that there were some telling signs like loss of energy and lethargy. One of the reasons I wrote the book was to document ALL my 20/20 hindsight in the hopes of helping other pet parents avoid the same mistakes and oversights I made.

When Buttons was diagnosed with cancer, what gave you both the determination and the confidence to bypass the traditional, prescribed “medical” treatments in favor of holistic care?
I had the advantage of having been raised in a family that practiced some alternative health care methods. I was already well-versed in the difference between Western/allopathic medicine’s way of focusing, squelching and treating the symptom versus the holistic method of removing all toxins from the body and environment, cleansing the body of all residual toxins, and strengthening the body nutritionally so it could heal itself. The EMOTIONAL turmoil I faced and overcame prior to my choice of treatment is described in detail in the story (it’s a good one- don’t want to ruin it for anyone here :).

Did you put her through any of the prescribed protocols at all, or did you stick to holistic-only?
The vet was insistent that without amputation, chemotherapy, and radiation within 48 hours of receiving the (twice done) lab results, Buttons would be dead in 6 weeks. However, I knew that wasn’t the route for us, and instead, I enlisted the help of several alternative practitioners. Combined with my own knowledge and experience of treating the cause (emotional and physical toxicity placing an unmanageable burden on the immune system) rather than the symptom (cancer), proceeded to implement a purely holistic, cleansing regimen.

Did you consult with a holistic vet prior to embarking on your treatment plan for Buttons? Or did you create your own treatment plan based upon your extensive knowledge of alternative and holistic healing?
Buttons’ diagnosis was in 1992. At that time there were no holistic vets in Tucson where we were living.

What did Button’s diet consist of prior to her becoming ill?
A dry kibble prescribed by her vet.

What changes did you make to her diet after she was diagnosed?
I immediately began home cooking organic food and treats. Eventually what in my opinion became the best diet for her was home cooked organic ground turkey, organic millet, grated raw veggies and sea meal.

What were some of the things you did to clear her environment of toxins?
I stopped using commercial flea products, air fresheners, and any cleaning products other than vinegar or lemon juice. I switched to an all-natural laundry detergent and stopped using all fabric softener and dryer sheets. I made sure her bowls were nowhere near an electrical outlet and gave away my microwave."

Please stay tuned for part 2! In the meantime-

what are some things you've done to clear YOUR home environment of toxins?

Helping Haiti

2010-01-20T20:59:00.000-08:00

Help the people of Haiti
while helping your own family members
(and doggies) !!!

To find out how, just
click HERE

The Depth Of Our Love

2010-01-12T09:07:00.000-08:00

Originally written for and reprinted here with permission from: The Dog Files

The Depth Of Our Love

By Nadine M. Rosin For The Dog Files

There’s little if anything I can think of that brings more instantaneous joy than time spent with a beloved dog. That silly grin, that waggedy tail, the rush you get from flinging your heart wide open without fear or reservation while simultaneously being showered with totally accepting, faithful, and unconditional love. What perfect and precious moments our dogs provide. It’s the stuff great mystics have described, this safe and blissful love.

Our furry apostles are constantly reminding us that regardless of circumstances, worldly events, or economic climate, life is supposed to be fun. It’s to be lived with our awareness seated in the present moment without regret, judgment or betrayal of others. One never needs to protect oneself emotionally with a dog. Instead, they show us by example, how to live freely and love completely.

There have been people in my life who have done or said things that I’ve reacted to by feeling extremely hurt, sad, angry, or irritated, sometimes for years on end. But the truth is, I have never felt irritated or angry towards a dog for more than a few seconds. Our canines embody the highest, best parts of our humanity, and I believe, they make us better people. So, is it any wonder, then, that the death of a beloved dog can cut so deeply, can be so utterly emotionally devastating?

Taoists, quantum physicists, and motivational speaker and author, John Bradshaw, all agree that emotion is energy in motion. But instead, in our culture, we are encouraged to keep our grief, one of the strongest of all emotions, under control, private, and subdued. Above all, we are admired for our stoicism in the face of profound grief. Those who care for us strive to help us get over our pain and loss as quickly as possible- to stop all that emotion, not to take the longer road of letting it move around and out at its own pace. And as pet parents, we are often hurt the worst by the words of well-intentioned friends when they ask us, “So when are you going to get another dog?”

When my heart-dog Buttons, died in my arms 1 week before her 19th birthday, I thought the pain, loss and heartbreak would kill me, too. But as I began to spend less and less time listening to those who were trying to make me feel better, and instead, spent more time surrendering to and leaning INTO the pain, it took me to a place where I could begin to find true, authentic comfort. I found that when I let the emotions move through me and allowed myself to experience them fully, they allowed me access to a place within my own heart that no mantra or meditation had ever taken me to. And there, in that very deepest part of myself, where the agony and the ecstasy merged, there was no pain- there was only love. Because, of course, the depth of our grief is in direct proportion to the depth of our love.

In the nearly 2 decades we were together, I never once saw Buttons try to squelch any of her emotions. Yes, I could have gone out soon after her death, gotten another dog and eased some of my pain, but oh, what a gift I would have missed by not letting that pain lead me into such a deep and special place.

I am honored to be a guest writer for The Dog Files and I look forward to sharing more about my perspective of pet-loss, grieving, and the holistic approach that gave Buttons and me so many joyful and healthy years together. In future columns I will be sharing about the cancer Buttons was diagnosed with at the age of 8 when she was given 6 weeks to live without chemotherapy, radiation and amputation and how she went on to thrive an additional 11 years with exclusively holistic treatments. I will also explore with you, the many tools and paths to emotional healing I have discovered when a beloved animal passes.

But now it’s your turn. Please, share with us about your own heart-dog. Talking about it is a way to put the energy in motion.

DogQuality.com & HOLISTIC CARE FOR SENIOR DOGS

2010-01-09T23:33:00.000-08:00

I recently had the great pleasure of being interviewed by Ann-Marie Fleming of DogQuality.com Senior Dog Blog. Please visit their wonderful site today! Here is some of that interview:

"In our discussion with Nadine we learned a great deal about how to embrace a holistic lifestyle for our dogs, what steps we need to take and what benefits can result.

Ann-Marie Fleming: Nadine, you were able in many ways to cure Buttons’ cancer through a holistic approach. How was that possible?

Nadine M. Rosin: First off, it was our well-reputed vet who gave Buttons 6-weeks to live without amputation, chemotherapy and radiation within 48 hours of her diagnosis (the lab ran the biopsy twice as the prognosis was so dire- the cancer so insidious). Instead, after much soul-searching, I implemented what I define as a holistic regimen, and after 4 months, Buttons was completely cancer-free for the next 11 years until she passed of old age at 19.

What I did NOT do was treat her symptoms or “fight” the cancer with natural remedies and alternative treatments in lieu of pharmaceutical drugs. That would have been the same Allopathic approach that traditional Western medicine takes…that the vet insisted I take.

Because I was already very familiar with the age old Eastern medical philosophy that the body’s natural state is one of radiant health and that anything less is due to an overburdened immune system, I took the holistic approach of clear/cleanse/build:

I cleared our home of all potential toxins/causes including fabric softener, dryer sheets, chemical rug cleaners, microwave oven, monthly flea treatments, and rawhide chews to name just a few.

I cleansed Buttons’ physical and emotional bodies of residual toxins with herbs, cleansing tinctures, homeopathy and Bach Flower Remedies

I built her body nutritionally by switching from the vet recommended kibble to only home-cooked organic food and treats, supplements and superfoods.

Ann-Marie Fleming: What is the best way to start to incorporate a holistic approach? What are the first steps people should be taking?

Nadine M. Rosin: Start changing your thinking. “Clear/cleanse/build” is an entirely different paradigm than “take a pill and squelch that symptom”! We actually expect out bodies to get diseased and frail- our dogs to be “old” at the age of 9 or 10! But look at people like Jay Kordich (the Juice Man) who in his 87th year is vibrantly alive, living a chemical-free, raw and organic lifestyle, and we see proof that the body’s natural state is one of health and well-being. Look at Buttons, who was running down the trail for miles at the age of 17.

We are what we eat and breathe and absorb through our skin. Caffeine and sugar, chemical cleaners, parabens in moisturizers and make-up equals an eventually, overburdened immune system and degenerative disease. Processed, nutritionally empty commercial dog food, monthly flea poison, chemically treated plastic toys equals the same. Our pets’ bodies metabolize much faster than ours. They get cancer with far less exposure than we do.

Ann-Marie Fleming: You talk a lot about a toxic free lifestyle. What are some easy changes people can make?

Nadine M. Rosin: READ LABELS!!! Just because something is sold off a grocery store (or even health food store) shelf does NOT mean it’s safe to use or consume for ten or twenty years.

Remember, it’s a build-up of toxic burden to the immune system that weakens it and welcomes disease. Read and research the ingredients in things you are using, eating and drinking everyday!

Ann-Marie Fleming: What are some everyday items that people may not even realize are toxic?

Nadine M. Rosin: Plug in air fresheners is a good one along with popular brands of spray air, carpet and furniture fresheners. Same is often true for rug cleaners and stain removers. Many contain one or more of the following:

Benzyl alcohol: “causes respiratory problems, nausea and vomiting, a depressed central nervous system and a drop in blood pressure.”
Camphor: “currently on the EPA’s Hazardous Waste List … readily absorbed through bodily tissue… irritation of the eyes, skin, nose and throat … dizziness, confusion, nausea, twitching muscles and convulsions … avoid inhalation of vapors”
Dichlorobenzene: “extremely toxic, a central nervous system depressant, kidney and liver poison. One of the chlorinated hydrocarbons that is long-lasting in the environment and stored in body fat. Banned in California.”
Ethanol: “derived from petroleum and is carcinogenic … toxic to the skin, respiratory, cardiovascular, developmental, endocrine, neurological and gastrointestinal systems.”
Formaldehyde: ”toxic if inhaled, poisonous if swallowed. skin and eye irritant.”

Ann-Marie Fleming: Our audience are mainly owners of older dogs. Can a holistic approach help dogs that are already into their senior years? What lifestyle change would you say can make the biggest impact for senior dogs?

Nadine M. Rosin: A well-researched, well-informed holistic approach can help any living being at any age. In my opinion the things easiest to change with the greatest impact on senior dogs are vaccinations, flea treatments, and household toxin exposure. Food is also important, but one must be very careful when moving to a cleaner diet with older dogs. Much commercial food is made with ingredients filled with pesticides, hormones and antibiotics (in the form of chicken/beef/liver meal, fat, etc.) To suddenly stop feeding that food could cause the body to go into a healing crisis as it starts releasing years of accumulated toxins stored in the dogs organs, skin, and tissue. You do not want that to happen especially with a senior dog.

I encourage pet parents of senior dogs to find a well-reputed holistic vet who adheres to the policy of clear/cleanse/build and together create a slow and gentle change of diet plan. I have known holistic vets who’ve had German Shepherds live into their 20’s. Buttons had more energy at 16 following a holistic lifestyle than at 6 with a standard American canine lifestyle. Human and canine bodies will live long and vibrantly when given the chance. You’ve just got to do things a little bit differently than the mainstream, chemical-laden way."

For more about DogQuality watch their YouTube video HERE

RAWHIDE CHEWS: Great Treat or Grave Danger?

2009-12-25T20:41:00.000-08:00

Nothing against Santa, but here's the deal: rawhide is literally the outside of a cow– the skin. Rawhide is not regulated in any way.

Some imported brands (China, Philippines) have been reported as soaked in formaldehyde or contaminated with arsenic. These foreign hides may also contain other detrimental things such as antibiotics, insecticides, or lead- things you'd never knowingly want your pet to ingest.

And even if it's made in the USA, if it is not from organic, grass-fed cows, then chances are very good that that skin is infused with the pesticides and chemicals that animal ate, absorbed, and was exposed to during its life.

Also, choking is a hazard, and rawhide can cause canine gastric irritation when chewed on often, which can lead to vomiting and extreme discomfort.

Now the good news: there are great alternatives for purchase online.

Recently on twitter, I read that my beautiful Golden Retriever pal, Mackenzie, tried and fell in love with a safer alternative made from - drum roll... shed deer antlers! Here is the reliable brand that Mackenzie and her dad get from the good folks at Best Bully Sticks. Yum. Yum. Woof!

Or, thick pieces of dehydrated organic sweet potato is nutritious, delicious, and cheap if you have a food dehydrator. At the very least, please consider buying a brand that is made in the USA and says something on the label about being natural. Good chewing!

Sweet Smell or TOXIC TIME BOMB?!?

2009-12-15T09:45:00.000-08:00

Last week, in-between checking Facebook and Twitter, I opened a third window to peruse my local Craigslist. "Sporting Goods" is one of the categories I'm fond of, especially right before the holidays when people tend to sell their used (or UNused depending on how you look at it!) exercise equipment at rock-bottom prices. I was thrilled when I came across The Fluidity Bar for $60- brand new it's $250 w/shipping from the company. Having trained in classical ballet for many years as a child and young adult, I knew this would provide a home workout I would actually do and love. (No, that's not me in the picture...YET! ;)

I met the seller in a restaurant parking lot halfway between our two homes. Being Craigslist experienced, I knew to throw an old blanket on the ground next to my car and have her set up the Fluidity Bar so I could examine it thoroughly. It looked in excellent condition: solid, unscratched, the fold-out vinyl-covered mat, clean with not a tear in sight. We folded it back up and loaded it into my car. I handed her cash and she handed me a bag with the workout dvds. I drove home giddy with my treasure.

As soon as I got it into my living room (an enclosed space) and set it up, I was assaulted by the familiar, repulsive (to me) smell of plug-in air freshener. I don't know what brand- but I recognized the smell. One of the couple's who are out-call bodywork clients of mine, use it in their multi-million dollar home. It wouldn't be appropriate for me to say anything to them, and in the past they've mostly rolled their eyes at me when I've tried to discuss less toxic ways of living. So I just discreetly unplug the ones in the room where I set up the massage table until it's time for me to leave. Still, after being there for 3 hours, I can always smell the stuff in my hair and have to wash it as soon as I get home, before getting a migraine from the smell.

It's also the same smell that permeates everything in Wal-Mart. I know this because once a friend bought some yarn there and asked me to knit a scarf for her daughter. I couldn't work with the yarn because of the odor. The few times I've been in a Wal-Mart since, the same smell hits me as soon as I walk in the door.

So I did what every good researcher does... I went online and began searching out ways to get rid of the smell without endangering the vinyl. Of course, I already knew this stuff was toxic, especially regarding animals- it's one of the first things I ask pet parents about when doing a holistic consultation.

What I wasn't prepared for was that it's SO toxic, nothing gets rid of it! Not vinegar, baking soda, dish washing soap, lemon juice, or even bleach. I even tried the fruit and vege wash that cuts oils. As if it were a living, malevolent thing, that air freshener scent got even stronger with every experimental washing. Soon the entire room reeked of it and I had to move the Fluidity Bar to the back patio.
Luckily, the next day I was able to find another Craigslist seller who was willing to just sell me the vinyl mat part- one that hadn't been exposed to plug-in air fresheners.

I am very much enjoying my Fluidity Bar workouts and have been inspired anew by this experience to URGE pet parents to become more aware of the environment they are creating.
BECAUSE IF YOU CAN'T GET IT OUT OF POROUS SURFACES... IMAGINE WHAT IT'S DOING INSIDE THE LUNGS, SKIN, TISSUE, AND BLOODSTREAMS OF YOU, YOUR CHILDREN, AND YOUR PETS!!!

NOTE: the chemicals (voc's) in plug-in air fresheners are formulated to cling to surfaces including the inside of your nose- so you will not smell the scent on objects when the object is in a room with the plug-in

These products are not tested for 20 years (the actual possible life span for most dogs) to see if they cause cancer in any of us before being put on the grocery store shelves. And even when some of the ingredients are known to cause cancer, the products aren't necessarily pulled. See what I'm talking about by doing your own research! You can start here, and here, and here.

SOME of what I found:

"Air Fresheners contain Volatile Organic Compounds, VOC's, which are irritants for the lungs, eyes and skin. These toxic chemicals have properties linked to solvents and paint thinners and react with other cleaning materials and even home furnishings to create unhealthy indoor air quality. These products are not to be considered air purifiers or air cleaners in any way. They can actually make you sick."

"Unfortunately, plug-in "air fresheners" emit volatile organic compounds that are easily absorbed by porous building materials, especially sheetrock/drywall and fiberglass.

Because artificial fragrances are now chemically designed to stick to most everything in which they come in contact, washing fragrances out of most anything is very difficult. If the A/C ducts in the home you're in have exposed fiberglass inside, which many of them do, then vacuuming them out won't do much of anything.

My wife is severely chemically sensitive. We're currently renting and I'm looking for a home to buy. I've resigned myself that I will have to retrofit any home we buy because of the prevalence of artificial fragrance use in homes now. The most important part will be locating the areas in the home where the heaviest fragrance use was and tearing out the drywall, installing new formaldehyde-free drywall, and painting it with no-VOC paint."

THE FIRST CHRISTMAS CARD

2009-12-14T08:28:00.000-08:00

DOES YOUR DOG HAVE A HAPPY STORY?

2009-12-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

Because every dog has their own tale, you will want to know about Happy Tails Books! Here's what they have to say:

Happy Tails Books is collecting stories about adopted dogs and compiling them into breed-specific books that support dog rescue. They want to hear from you!

Give your dog a voice by sharing his/her story! Each book has a variety of sections that your dog can be featured in. The main section is comprised of a few dozen short stories (600-1200 words) about adopted dogs. Other sections include anecdotes, behavioral and medical challenges and how they were solved, recipes, and poems. Your story can be about anything regarding your dog, but most importantly should be emotional (funny, happy, sad, thought-provoking) and have a clear point.

At Happy Tails Books you can:
• submit your story
• pick up a book about your favorite breed (A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT!)
• join their mailing list
• find story submission guidelines
• read the “Don’t Kill Bill” blog to learn about life as a foster parent
• stay up-to-date on the latest dog advocacy news
• apply to become part of the donation pool (tax-exempt rescue groups only)

Please visit their website, and consider forwarding this information along to your friends who have adopted dogs. Happy Tails Books is publishing 3-6 books per year and is looking for stories on purebred dogs and mixed breeds.

Happy Tails Books is committed to donating a significant portion of proceeds to dog rescue groups!

A LITTLE THANKSGIVING WISDOM

2009-11-24T17:38:00.000-08:00

Sometimes dealing with human family members can be a bit challenging. A little patience can go a long way…

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

NOW AVAILABLE: The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood ON YOUR COMPUTER, iPad or eREADER!

2009-11-17T11:51:00.000-08:00

☚☚☚Just click on the 2nd PayPal button- the one that says "BUY NOW" (not "PAY NOW") on the left column BELOW THE AMAZON LINK, and for only $10, have a pdf of the entire book emailed to you for:

easy reading on your computer, iPad, or eReader!

Or- using "abobe Reader 7" and "iPod Notes Reader" you can convert it into files that can be read on your iPod!

Enjoy! And as always, thank you for helping spread the word so we can continue helping more and more pets and pet parents!

CLICK HERE to read the AMAZON reviews!

A THOUGHTFUL, LASTING GIFT

2009-11-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

From now until December 15th, all copies of
The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood ordered through the publisher at
THIS LINK
will be signed copies with an inscription from the author!

(no minimum purchase)

If you prefer to order by phone, please call toll free: 1-888-934-0888 x3
The book's ISBN number is: 9781604940404Here's what others have to say about this book being the perfect gift:

“If ever there was a doubt in anyone’s mind that animals can heal us, then Nadine M. Rosin’s The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood will dispel that notion. It is an incredible tale of her emotional and physical journey with her dog, Buttons. A spiritual adventure, this book highlights holistic pet care particularly dealing with canine cancer. A blessing to read and a gift to share.”

-- Christy Crabtree, ANIMAL WORLD USA MAGAZINE

“The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood is an enchanting love story about a woman and her dog. And yet, because Rosin has written from wrenching pain and ascendant compassion, this book is also a meditation on oneness and a guide to self-completion. Enriching and entertaining, lyrical and insightful, it is a joy to read. You will give it as a gift to many people, with complete confidence that it will be cherished.”

-- Hugh Prather, author of The New York Times best seller, Notes To Myself

If we could all roll through our days with the reckless abandon of Buttons prancing through a wash or dancing with a piece of driftwood on the beach, we'd be better for it. I walked away from this read realizing that living creatures are capable of connecting and communicating on so many non-verbal levels, if we're tuned in. And we're just not, most of the time. This book will open your eyes in so many ways. I'm giving it to everyone I know for Christmas.

--J. Hussy, Tucson, AZ

“The deeply compelling, The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, is a timeless testament to the paradigm of Oneness. It shows that love knows no bounds and that Spirit is bigger than form. When the student is ready the teacher will appear, sometimes camouflaged as a four-legged companion.”

--Rev. Deborah L. Johnson, author of The Sacred Yes and Your Deepest Intent

“The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood underscores the fact that the bond many of us develop with our pets is an incredible, inspirational thing that does not necessarily end with loss. This highly readable, intimate book is nothing less than a testament to that attachment.”

-- Larry Cox, TUCSON CITIZEN BOOK REVIEWS

EASY, NO-RISK FUND RAISING FOR ANIMAL NON PROFITS & RESCUES!

2009-10-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

Dear animal non profits, rescues, shelters, veterinarians, and pet product retailers:

You can at anytime, purchase

THE HEALING ART OF PET PARENTHOOD at wholesale cost, directly from the publisher, to turn around and sell for the cover price.

Depending on how many copies you purchase and shipping costs to your part of the country, your profit will run approximately $7.95 - $13.95 per book!

What a great way to help educate and support your community having healthier, longer living pets, help comfort grieving pet parents, enlighten NON pet parents, and raise money for your organization! Plus, the following terms and return policy make this a virtually NO-RISK fund raiser for non profits!!!

Publisher contact information, terms and pricing are:

Call toll free 1-888-934-0888 x3
or Fax (520) 798-3394
Email: orders@wheatmark.com

Terms: Net 30 days
Non Profit/Retailer Discount: 40% for 1-99 copies, 50% for 100-499 copies, 55% for 500+
Shipping & Handling: Paid by non profit/retailer
Return Policy: Returnable within 1 Year (if in original, unaltered condition)

For information on author book signings, appearances and speaking engagements, please email me (see top left column)

FINDING A HOLISTIC VET IN YOUR AREA

2009-10-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

You can use this site to start. If you're moving, don't forget to find and research your new vet before you have some kind of an emergency situation. Also, make sure you and your new vet are on the same page: are they truly holistic or just symptom treating with natural remedies?

Don't be afraid to ask if their basic philosophy is one of 1) removing toxins from the the animal's inner and outer environment, 2) cleansing the animal's system of residual toxins, and 3) strengthening the body nutritionally so it can heal itself.

Wishing you vibrant health
and precious moments-
Nadine (and Buttons)

IN OUR HEARTS, WE ALL KNOW PATRICIA

2009-08-07T09:58:00.000-07:00

Patricia first contacted me almost a year ago, sharing her deep and wonderful experience of reading The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood. Yesterday I received this letter from her, and am sharing it here with her permission. As pet parents, we can all relate. Please join me in holding Patricia, Buddy, and all grieving pet parents in light and love during their time of deep transition.

"Dear Nadine:

I don't know if you remember me, I am the lady from "Warehouse Vitamins" that wrote some time ago about my dog, "Buddy."

My dearest and most trusted companion fell ill, on the 23rd of July. Before I knew what was happening, and the vet miss-diagnosed him to have valley fever, and after a full panel of blood work, we discovered that his kidneys were failing.

He fell much worse by the 27th of July. Although I tried several times to get him in sooner to the vet, they were reluctant to see the urgency of my precious boy, so took him to another vet, his little kidneys were breaking down. After years of battling stones in his bladder and two surgeries, his little kidneys just could not keep up.

His little heart was enlarged and to flush the kidneys would affect the heart, and he was in such pain, that he was telling me that it was time to go. I had spent the night before nursing him and trying to make him comfortable, he kept getting up trying to tell me he had to go somewhere. After tears of heartbreak and bewilderment, I took him in early to find that his pain was too much to bear. Between the advise of a vet, of whom I have never met but was truly in tune with Buddy we decided to put him to sleep.

Buddy was to receive a sedative first, but as my baby lay in my arms with eyes wide open, looking at his mama, he was telling me he wanted me to go through this transition with him. The doctor then administered the narcotic, and little Buddies eyes were open the whole time, as I told him that mama is right here, you'll not feel any more pain, and that you are such a brave boy, and a good boy,and then the love of my life, had left... his lifeless body left with eyes left on me. Oh the grief, the heart wrenching break of almost 16 years with my most trusted friend was gone.

Your book became alive in my life! The emptiness, at home, my babies little bed empty the space of once shared on the floor is somewhat out of order now that I just keep looking for my precious "Buddy!"

Oh Nadine , I think people think I am crazy to love my boy as I did! But it gives me great relief to write this with an understanding heart on the other end. Please keep me in your prayers, the nights are long, and the mornings are the worst. But we will endure, Buddy would of wanted mama to.

With much love,

Patricia C."

MORE REASONS TO GIVE UP DRYER SHEETS

2009-07-15T13:24:00.001-07:00

Think about it- If you use these products, you are absorbing the following chemicals through your skin (our biggest organ) via your clothes, bedding, towels...constantly. And so are your children and pets.

Chemicals Found in Fabric Softeners/Dryer Sheets
Chemicals found in fabric softeners by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) "Identification of Polar Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer Products and Common Microenvironments," 1991 Reference: Lance Wallace, EPA. Phone (703) 341-7509

Alpha-Terpineol - Causes CNS (central nervous system) disorders... "highly irritating to mucous membranes" ..."Aspiration into the lungs can produce pneumonitis or even fatal edema." Can also cause "excitement, ataxia (loss of muscular coordination), hypothermia, CNS and respiratory depression, and headache." "Prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact."
Benzyl Acetate - Carconigenic (linked to pancreatic cancer). "From vapors: irritating to eyes and respiratory passages, exciting cough." "In mice: hyperanemia of the lungs." "Can be absorbed through the skin causing systemic effects." "Do not flush to sewer."
Benzyl Alcohol - Causes CNS disorders ..."irritating to the upper respiratory tract" ..."headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drop in blood pressure, CNS depression, and death in severe cases due to respiratory failure."
Camphor - Causes CNS disorders. On EPA's Hazardous Waste list. Symptoms: "local irritant and CNS stimulant" ..."readily absorbed through body tissues" ..."irritation of eyes, nose, and throat" ..."dizziness, confusion, nausea, twitching muscles and convulsions". "Avoid inhalation of vapors."
Chloroform - Neurotoxic. Anesthetic. Carcinogenic. On EPA's Hazardous Waste list. "Avoid contact with eyes, skin, clothing. Do not breathe vapors ...Inhalation of vapors may cause headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, irritation of respiratory tract and loss of consciousness." "Inhalation can be fatal." "Chronic effects of overexposure may include kidney and/or liver damage." "Medical conditions generally aggravated by exposure: kidney disorders, liver disorders, heart disorders, skin disorders." "Conditions to avoid: Heat..." Listed on California's Proposition 65.
Ethyl Acetate - Narcotic. On EPA's Hazardous Waste list. "...Irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract" ..."may cause headache and narcosis (stupor)" ..."may cause anemia with leukocytosis and damage to liver and kidneys". "Wash thoroughly after handling."
Limonene - Carcinogenic. "Prevent its contact with skin or eyes because it is an irritant and sensitizer." "Always wash thoroughly after using this material and before eating, drinking ...applying cosmetics. Do not inhale limonene vapor."
Linalool - Narcotic. Causes CNS disorders. ..."Respiratory disturbances" ..."Attracts bees." "In animal tests: ataxic gait, reduced spontaneous motor activity and depression ...depressed heart activity ...development of respiratory disturbances leading to death."
Pentane - "Danger - Harmful if inhaled ...Avoid breathing vapor." "Inhalation of vapors may cause headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, irritation of respiratory tract and loss of consciousness. Repeated inhalation of vapors may cause CNS depression. Contact can cause eye irritation. Prolonged exposure may cause dermatitis (skin rash)."
CNS = Central Nervous System - Your brain and spine. CNS disorders include: Alzheimer's Disease, Attention Deficit Disorder, Dementia, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, Seizures, Strokes, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
CNS exposure symptoms include: aphasia, blurred vision, disorientation, dizziness, headaches, hunger, memory loss, numbness in face, pain in neck and spine.

BY THE "PAWER" VESTED IN ME...

2009-07-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of respect for people’s creative expression. We have all experienced or witnessed how it makes us feel young, healthy, and happy when we're in the flow- and rather squelched and depressed when we're not.

Pet parents often express themselves through their animals: outfits, holiday costumes, birthday parties, and the latest craze- doggy weddings.
Personally, I’ve never been drawn to doing those things with my dog. Although we DID always acknowledge her birthday with a long hike and special treats, Buttons never wore outfits except a utilitarian sweater when we were camping overnight in the cold. The one time a groomer put bows in Buttons’ hair, I swear my sweet girl gave me the angriest and most humiliated look until I removed them, and she didn’t seem too happy about my laughing all the way to the car, first.

In addition to being the author of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, I am also a painter, a nondenominational minister and wedding officiant. To date, I have written, personalized and performed over 600 weddings. I’ll admit, there have been some bridezillas along the way, but technically, each and every one of the couples I’ve married have been human.

I probably wouldn’t perform a doggy wedding if asked, but I always encourage pet parents to somehow include their dogs in THEIR ceremonies. Many have been ringbearers- the rings secured in a small satin bag attached to their collar, and a few “best men” with black bow ties.
The one I’ll always remember clearly, was the black lab who insisted on licking my toes throughout the ceremony and I never again wore dress sandals to perform a wedding. In truth the toe-licking itself wasn’t so bad- it was the unexpected shock of it as I stood speaking to the couple’s 300 guests.

At the very least, when the venue doesn’t allow dogs, I suggest the couple have a framed photograph of their furry kids on the altar table. That includes beloved canines who have passed. Weddings, after all, are all about love...and of course, so are dogs.

SCENTS: Pleasant or Potentially Deadly?

2009-07-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

The following are research studies I've found along my journey towards a more pure way of living; in order to exercise some control over what chemicals my immune system and the immune systems of my loved ones are exposed to in our highly toxic world.
I encourage you to continue your OWN research on the road towards more vibrant health and well-being for you, your children, and your animals.

Making Sense of Scents
Compiled by the late Julia Kendall, Co-Chair, Citizens for a Toxic-Free Marin, borrowing from Irene Wilkenfeld's "Fragrance Facts," and from research contributed by Karen Stevens, Carol Kuczora, Milan Param, Richard Conrad PhD, Susan Nordmark, Susan Springer, Mary Ann Handrus, Susan Molloy, and Sandy Ross PhD.

"Perfumes are increasingly used in an ever wider variety of fields, including perfumes proper, cosmetic products, hygenic products, drugs, detergents and other household products, plastics, industrial greases, oils and solvents, foods, etc. Their composition is usually complex - it involves numerous natural and synthetic sweet-smelling constituents, more than 5,000 of which are known. Perfumes may produce toxic and more often allergic respiratory disorders (asthma), as well as neurological and cutaneous disorders." from the French toxicology journal, Ann Dermatol Vernereol, Vol 113, ISS 1, 1986, P.31-41
84% of these ingredients have never been tested for human toxicity, or have been tested only minimally. N. Ashford, Phd and C. Miller, M.D. Chemcial Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes 1991, p. 61

In 1986 the National Academy of Sciences targeted fragrances as one of the six categories of chemicals that should be given high priority for neurotoxicity testing. The other groups include insecticides, heavy metals, solvents, food additives and certain air pollutants. The report states that 95% of chemicals used in fragrances are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. They include benzene derivatives, aldehydes, and many other known toxics and sensitizers - capable of causing cancer, birth defects, central nervous system disorders and allergic reactions. "Neurotoxins: At Home and the Workplace" (Report by the Committee on Science and Technology. U.S. House of Representatives, Sept, 16, 1986) [Report 99-827]
A few chemicals found in fragrances known to be neurotoxic: hexachlorophene; acetyl-ethyl-tetramethyl-tetralin; zinc-pyridinethione; 2,4,dinitro-3-methyl-6-tert-butylanisole; 1-Butanol; 2-butanol; tert-Butanol; Isobutanol; t-Butyl Toluene. Neurotoxic properties of chemicals found in fragrances have caused testicular atrophy in lab animals as well as myelin disease. The myelin sheath protects the nerves and does not regenerate. (Compiled from TOXLINE database of fragrances industry and medical journals.)

Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Lupus, and Alzheimer's are all neurological disorders. Dyslexia is a neurological dysfunction. Could any of these neurological dysfunctions be caused by exposure to neurotoxic chemicals? Symptoms are often identical to chemical hypersensitivity. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is also a neurological dysfunction. Could fragrant fabric softeners or detergents emitting neurotoxic chemicals cause the neurological breakdown?
A few chemicals found in fragrances known to cause cancer and birth defects: methylene chloride; toluene; methyl ethyl ketone; methyl isobutyl ketone; tert Butyl; sec Butyl; benzyl chloride. (Compiled by comparing a list of 120 fragrance chemicals from the EPA obtained through the Freedom of Information Act and California's Prop 65 List of Chemicals).

A few chemicals found in fragrances designated as hazardous waste disposal chemicals: methylene chloride; toluene; meythl ethyl ketone; methyl isobutyl ketone; ethanol; benzal chloride. These chemicals are listed in the EPA's Code 40 of Federal Regulations, Ch 1, Section 261.33.
884 toxic substances were identified in a list (partial) of 2,983 chemicals used in the fragrance industry: "Many of these substances are capable of causing cancer, birth defects, central nervous system disorders, breathing and allergic reactions and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities." (National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health report.)
In a National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health study conducted by Syracuse Research Corporation, Report No. SRC TR 81-521, 1981, benzoin is named as a chemical used in fragrances found to cause enlarged lymph nodes in both male and female mice and enlarged spleens in males. Liver damage is also cited.
AMICUS journal, Winter '89, Board of Environmental Studies and Toxicology of the National Research Counsel, the research branch of the National Academy of Sciences estimates that "15% of the population experiences hypersensitivity to chemicals found in common household products".

National Institutes of Health, "Issues and Challenges in Environmental Health," NIH Pub. #87-861..."Allergic reactions and hypersensitivity diseases, for instance, are among the most costly of U.S. health problems afflicting at least 35,000,000 Americans."

Article "One Woman's Perfume-Another Woman's Poison", in "Let's Live": "The chief reactions we see are those that affect the nervous system - headaches, anxiety, depression. But anything can be affected, even diet and a personal intolerance for different foods. There are two major ways in which cosmetics and their chemical constituents can affect the body. One is through direct contact. Inhalation is the other major route for molecules of an active substance to enter the blood stream. "There is a route from the nasal passage into the nervous system," says Mandell... "It is the way, for instance, that inhaled cocaine has an effect on the brain."

DON'T LET YOUR dog/cat BECOME A CANARY

2009-05-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

From Wikipedia: “Well into the 20th century, coal miners brought canaries into coal mines as an “early warning signal” for deadly, toxic gases. The birds, being more sensitive, would become sick before the miners, who would then have a chance to escape or put on protective respirators.”

Is it any wonder that with the “pre green” proliferation of chemical laden cleaning and laundry products, building supplies, and monthly flea poison treatments, that our pets are developing cancer at such an alarming rate? In addition to protecting one’s animal from constant exposure to a myriad of possible household carcinogens, our having to negotiate the constant recalls and dangers of an unregulated, processed pet food industry can be an overwhelming and depressing nightmare. But there’s also a deeper issue: when it comes to these everyday toxins that we have become so unconscious about or accepting of, have our cherished, innocent pets become our modern day canaries?

There are MANY things we can do to help prevent our beloved companion animals from ever getting cancer. When my 8-year old dog, aka: my adopted daughter, Buttons, was diagnosed with deadly carcinoma and given 6 weeks to live, I launched a massive personal research campaign into the world of holistic medicine.

I soon came to learn that “holistic” didn’t mean symptom treating with natural remedies or herbs in lieu of pharmaceutical drugs. Instead, it meant clearing my home environment of all possible toxins, cleansing Buttons’ entire system physically and emotionally, and then giving her the proper nutritional support so that Buttons’ body could do what an unburdened body does best: HEAL ITSELF.

Buttons went on to thrive for another 11 years. Exactly 1 week before her 19th birthday, she died peacefully of old age in my loving arms. The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood is the story of our nearly 2 decades together.

CONSULTATIONS: HELP IS JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY...

2009-05-12T22:45:00.000-07:00

Want to learn what clear/cleanse/build really means from someone who's done it successfully??

Are you feeling lost, alone, or overwhelmed with grief over the loss of a beloved pet?

NOW AVAILABLE: PHONE CONSULTATIONS (and IN-HOME consultations for Chicagoland pet parents!) WITH CERTIFIED HOLISTIC PETS/TOXIC-FREE LIFESTYLE CONSULTANT, PET BEREAVEMENT FACILITATOR AND AUTHOR OF "THE HEALING ART OF PET PARENTHOOD", NADINE M. ROSIN!
**This is NOT a veterinary or diagnostic service**

HOLISTIC CONSULTATION: It's all about prevention, pet parents! What our pets are exposed to regularly has a HUGE impact on their health. We are all what we eat, breathe, and absorb through our skin. Our pets' bodies metabolize everything so much faster than ours: what everyday chemicals may take 40 or 50 years of exposure to create disease in our bodies, may only take 3-6 years of exposure to create disease in theirs.

In our one-on-one personalized consultation, we'll discuss your choice of food, treats, toys, home and personal products- thoroughly examining everything you currently expose your pet to- including insidious things you are not even aware of! After explaining why some of those things may be extremely harmful to your pet, I'll share some simple, easily attainable alternatives that I myself use and help guide you into creating the safest, healthiest environment possible in your home.

GRIEF CONSULTATION: I will listen deeply, understand and validate, and if requested, share some unique, simple, and comforting processes to help you honor your relationship while grieving and healing your wounded heart.

For all the details including scheduling and payment, just scroll down the left column of this page.

TESTIMONIALS:

"I need a megaphone to shout to the world that Nadine is AMAZING! I had a consultation with her on how my dog has been getting chronic ear infections, and the advice she gave to ELIMINATE not only this issue but others as well was unlike any other. She gave me information that you can't find by researching - it was in...valuable. She went well over the time limit, and exceeded my expectations. I'm now well on my way to making my doggie as healthy as healthy can be!"

--Erika Stanczak McQuade, New York State

“I LOVED my “Toxic-free Living” consultation with Nadine. Here I thought I was using only the best, safest “natural” products and boy, was THAT so not the truth. Nadine enthusiastically helped me weed out the “culprits” and find easy, inexpensive alternatives that are safe for my family and 3 dogs. My hour on the phone with her, was fun and invaluable. Thank you, Nadine, for helping me keep my loved ones safer!”

---Dee Ryan/Pet Parent, Seattle, WA

“Nadine, thanks so very much for all of your assistance, counseling, infinite patience, your care and concern in our consultations as I was coping with my German Shepherd Dog Savannah's incurable disease. Although in the end Savannah lost her battle with Inflammatory Bowel Disease at the tender age of 36 months, it was your valuable knowledge regarding canine holistic healing, and the time that you spent offering me valuable nutritional and environmental suggestions that afforded Savannah an additional nine months of life! Nadine, I will be forever grateful to you for that!"

---Karen L. DeBias
FROM MY HOUSE TO YOURS, A Premier Pet Sitting Service
Website: http://www.FromMyHouseToYours.net

“When my dear Boomer passed away, you were the only one who really understood all I was feeling. Thank you for helping me survive those initial first days of overwhelming grief. I thank my wonderful friend, Diane, too. She didn’t know what to say to me herself, but she knew to give me the gift of a grief consultation with you, Nadine. Bless you and all those you help.”

---S. Michaels/Pet Parent, San Francisco, CA

"I myself having done a consult with Nadine can truly say she has made my 2 dachshund babies so much more healthier! I actually noticed that once I started using her recommendations my 11 year old's health and looks improved immensely....ie...he was missing hair on his tail for years and the vet chalked it up to some type of dermatitis and after changing his diet, and getting rid of toxins in my home (which I didnt realize where toxins) his hair has grown back!!! I LOVED having this consult and cannot thank Nadine enough for all her valuable information she shared with me! I highly recommend anyone that loves their babies to have a consult with her...it is truly worth every penny!"

---R. Tedesco/Pet Parent, NJ

THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND

2009-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

My 1st book, The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood spans the 2 decades I spent with the 4-legged love of my life, my heart dog, Buttons. It's our story of the human-animal bond, how I helped her heal from cancer, how she helped me heal from a terrified, bruised and broken heart, and how I emotionally survived her physical death.

The question I get asked most by readers is, "Have you gotten another dog since Buttons died?" It's then that I try to explain. Marketing a book is a full time job, especially when it's not backed by a big publishing house, and its author feels as passionately about the topic as I do. Since I'm not currently in a position to make book marketing my only full time job, but rather, my 2nd full time job (in addition to a part time business!), it wouldn't be responsible of me, with such limited time and energy, to try and share my life with a canine companion, too.

But I am immersed as deeply as ever in the human-animal bond, and I have gotten hundreds of dogs since Buttons made her transition. Everyday is a constant flow of emails, and phone consultations- the ones about Bruiser and Godiva, Dasher, Carmie, Tinker Bell, Cisco, Biskit, Rudy and Reggie, et al, asking for guidance on feeding the safest food, healthy treat recipes, homeopathic remedies, alternatives to toxic flea treatments.... and the ones from pet parents whose beloveds have recently gone to Rainbow Bridge, thanking me for the validation and camaraderie my book has brought them.

I am blessed by every one of those emails and consultations, and although at this time, there is no cold nose waking me up in the morning with a snuggley nudge, I continue to embrace my bond with the animal teachers, and am honored to keep contributing my part to the stewardship we all have of our furry companions.

IN-HOME REPLACEMENTS: Helping Prevent Cancer

2009-04-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

As promised, here's the list of what I feel are safer alternatives- ones that I personally have used (see previous post). When choosing to reduce our pet's exposure to less toxic products in the home, we are taking a proactive, holistic approach: addressing the possible causes of cancer rather than treating or suppressing the symptoms.

NOTE: Some alternatives are safe for dogs, BUT UNSAFE , even DEADLY for FOR CATS AND BIRDS (see comment section) PLEASE do your OWN research BEFORE USING ANY of the things I personally choose to use around my dog!!!

Non polluting, natural laundry detergent w/o petro chemicals, phosphates, formaldehyde, or alcohol-based scent (personally, I like Trader Joe's liquid laundry detergent which is plant-based and scented w/lavender oil)

I also use Trader Joe's lavender filled dryer bags instead of chemical laden dryer sheets

Here is some great info on alternatives to monthly flea products. There are many effective options- please do your own research and experimentation to see what works best for you and your pets.

Simply put:

cedar chips in pet bedding and outdoors
diatomaceous earth on baseboards (available online)
nematodes for the yard (available online)
combo of powdered Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Fennel, Yellow Dock, Wormwood and Rue (all available individually online or at most independent co-ops or health food stores) put in a shaker can and rubbed into pet's fur (NOTE-some herbs toxic and deadly to cats)
combo of Citronella, Eucalyptus, Cedar, and citrus oils rubbed on hands and then rubbed on dog's ears, belly, etc. (NOTE-some oils toxic and deadly to cats)

A simple google search of "organic non toxic lawn fertilizer" will give you many safe, affordable alternatives. Remember- your pet absorbs everything it's walking on through its paws.

Glass or stainless steel bowls for food and water are in my opinion, much safer than ceramic or plastic bowls which can leach chemicals into their contents. Be careful not to place a glass bowl anywhere in sunlight where it could possibly start a fire!

Air fresheners- this should be a no-brainer. Read the labels- why inhale all those chemicals?!?!? Instead, boil some lemons on the stove- (you can then use the cooled liquid to kill fleas on your pet!) or some oranges, cloves and cinnamon- makes your house smell wonderful. Or get some 100% pure essential oils and make your own scented potpourri w/cloth bags and "oiled" cotton balls. Or buy some naturally-scented, non lead wick candles at Whole Foods, or purchase an aromatherapy diffuser (they even make plug-in models!) which will also enhance the mood of everyone in your home instead of exposing them to potentially harmful chemicals. DO your research, however: SOME essential oils CAN be harmful or toxic to some animals including birds and cats!

And finally, replacing negatively-focused, dramatically inclined people :) Well, the best remedy I have found/experienced for that can be found by clicking right here!

COMMENT QUESTION: Have you replaced anything in your home with something natural that's not included on this list?

PREVENTING CANCER IN PETS

2009-04-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Holistic treatment is all about prevention. Start listing the chemicals many of us use in our homes, and it's easy to see see how dramatically we may be adding to the toxic overload of our beloved pets' immune systems.

The following is a short list of things I made sure were not in Buttons' environment. We stopped the cancer she was diagnosed with at age 8 and she lived to be a vibrant 19.

A Quick & Easy Home Toxin ✔list :

Pet or human bedding or cloth toys washed in non natural laundry detergent or non natural fabric softener

Pet or human bedding or cloth toys dried in chemical-laden dryer sheets

Monthly flea products

Chemical lawn fertilizer

Non natural rug and floor cleaners

Secondhand cigarette smoke

Plastic food or water bowls

Most plug-in or spray air fresheners and non-naturally scented candles

Negatively focused, dramatically-inclined people (Don't laugh-or actually, DO! Animals are highly sensitive and tend to act as emotional shunts for the people they love and are devoted to.)

COMMENT QUESTION: Which, if any of these things are you currently using around your pet?

Please stop back for my next post: NON TOXIC REPLACEMENTS

Health & Beauty For You AND Your Dog

2009-04-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

Early last year, a dear friend of mine turned me on to the health benefits of extra virgin coconut oil. I always heed her nutritional advice and immediately began my own research because:

A. - Everything she has ever shared with me regarding health and physical well-being: green smoothies, rebounding, eating raw, has been incredibly beneficial

AND

B. - She's approaching 60 and looks and lives like a vibrant 40-something

I did a lot of reading about extra virgin coconut oil then, because like so many other people, I was only aware of the negative smear campaign it got several years ago especially regarding movie theater popcorn. But then, thanks to Hanna- MY EYES WERE OPENED!
This stuff is not only EXTREMELY healthy and beneficial, but it's the only oil that doesn't turn rancid when heated. Tropical Traditions is a brand I prefer. They also make a killer (pun intended, I guess, *grin*) botanical broad spectrum disinfectant that I love using at home and consider totally safe to use around beloved pets.

I have also read numerous articles about the health benefits of extra virgin coconut oil for dogs. Most testimonials and vets say adding a little to a dog's diet is a sure-fire way to clear up skin allergies and other skin sensitivity conditions when nothing else has worked. Worth some research for interested pet parents.

Do you use coconut oil for yourself or your dog?
What's YOUR experience with it?

10 Things I WOULD Feed My Dog

2009-03-27T14:49:00.001-07:00

Ok, it's always better to focus on the positive-
so here ya go!

organic, human-grade, hormone-free, antibiotic-free turkey
organic millet
organic sweet potato
organic, grated veges
organic, human-grade, hormone-free, antibiotic-free chicken
organic, human-grade, hormone-free, antibiotic-free, grain-fed beef liver
organic millet, spelt, or quinoa flour
organic egg
organic, virgin coconut oil
organic, beans

ANOTHER NO-NO INGREDIENT

2009-03-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

I would never again feed my dog barley. To explain why, here is an excerpt from The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood. To "set up the clip" let me say, that Buttons had been recovering rapidly from a severe stroke in her 18th year.

By January her C neck had disappeared completely and she was able to walk pretty well, her CDS symptoms had lessened and she no longer got “stuck” in corners or behind furniture. The only symptom we couldn’t seem to overcome was the late-night pacing. I figured it might have been too late -- that perhaps she’d had the symptom too long for the alpha-lipoic acid to reverse it.

As a result of my on-line research, I was lucky enough to also have secured the advice of a holistic vet in northern California, Dr. Gloria Dodd. After reading Dr. Dodd’s website, I emailed her and the next day received a detailed response about her experience working with other CDS animals using homeopathy.
Excitedly I called her office. Forty minutes later, I hung up from our conversation with a heart full of hope and a list of suggestions. Number one on that list was for me to send a sample of Buttons’ fur to a lab for hair analysis. This was something I was familiar with, as a few years before, I had sent samples of both my hair and Buttons’ fur to a lab in Texas, which did analysis on people and dogs. Basically, a hair analysis will give you an idea of the mineral levels and their ratios in the body -- kind of like how geologists determine natural history by studying layers of rock. Back then, Buttons’ had come out normal in everything while my analysis had indicated extreme magnesium deficiency, a common symptom of CFS and adrenal exhaustion.

In addition, Dr. Dodd gifted me one of her products called a Healing Halter™, which arrived a few days after our call. It consisted of a green, nylon halter that fit around Buttons’ body and neck with Velcro. Sewn into the halter were quartz crystal mandalas and an anti-radiation bead, which also used the principal of pyramid configuration energy, something I was familiar with from Dad’s energy plates long ago. As Dr. Dodd explained on her website, the halter was designed to balance the body's own electromagnetic field (EMF) and in so doing stimulate the immune system and natural healing mechanism of the body.
In our small apartment, Buttons was never too far from the television or the refrigerator, both of which I knew to have large electromagnetic fields. Ten years before I had gotten rid of the worst culprit, a microwave oven, and I was happy for any protection the halter may have offered her from the other appliances. Again, it was at worst something that I knew couldn’t hurt.

When we got the results of Buttons’ fur analysis we were surprised to see that her level of aluminum was through the roof. It made sense as far as her Alzheimer’s-like symptoms went: the mystery to unravel was the aluminum’s source. Dr. Dodd and I carefully went over all the supplements Buttons had been on over the last five years. The water she drank was distilled. The treats were mostly homemade and always contained natural, organic ingredients. I’d never used aluminum cookware, so that wasn’t it. And then we found it.
Two years before I had taken a natural-care pet consultant’s advice to replace brown rice with barley in Buttons’ food. When she heard that, Dr. Dodd jumped on it, explaining that in the past she’d sent several types of grain to the lab and all the barley had tested the same: containing high, perhaps toxic levels of aluminum. Although Dr. Dodd had some personal opinions as to why that was so, all I cared about was finding the source of aluminum and removing it from Buttons’ world. So I took Dr. Dodd’s suggestion and sent a sample of the organic sprouting barley I’d been special ordering from the health food store to the lab for testing. Sure enough, it came back showing an extremely high aluminum content. Immediately after receiving the results, I threw out the ten pounds of barley I had in the pantry along with the all-natural, dry dog food with barley listed in the ingredients that I kept for travel and emergencies.

Frustrated that even high quality organic products could be toxic, I focused instead on our next step: trying to pull some of that aluminum out of Buttons’ brain. I ordered a series of nosodes -- homeopathic remedies developed for a specific problem, in this case, aluminum, the probable cause of her CDS. All I could do was pray that they were truly clean and natural.

For the next several months, Buttons was on those remedies and the results were subtle, but sure. The late night pacing continued, but her mind seemed sharper, more alert, and her spirit more present, enabling me at times, to bask in the illusion of staving off time. Most importantly, she never developed the CDS symptom of not recognizing me. In any event, between the pacing and the stroke, there was no denying that we were in the beginnings of our major transition, the one that would take her physical body away from me forever.

BUDGET CRISIS: SOLVED!!!

2009-03-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am honored to introduce POCKET, the dog who has single-pawedly come up with an efficacious solution for the U.S. budget crisis. In her own words, here is the plan:

"Did you see this story? A dog pooped $400.00. I can do that! I poop about eight times a day. I could walk into that AIG place, jump on the conference table, squat, wait 30 seconds, and say "Hey, there's your bonus pal!" I could go to the White House, get on the office rug, lay down a shadoobie, and say "Your stimulas package has arrived, Mr. President." I could go to Congress, drop a deuce, and say: "Here's your earmark Senator." Talk about Troubled Asset Relief."

(As you can see from the above photo, Pocket is ready to serve her country and is anxiously awaiting a call from the White House)

10 INGREDIENTS I WOULD NEVER FEED MY DOG

2009-03-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

"meal"
"byproduct"
wheat
corn
fructose
chicken fat (the inorganic kind in most commercial food)
organ meat that is not human grade or organic
gluten
soy
cheese

For more information, read THIS!

ANIMAL WORLD MAGAZINE

2009-03-19T13:25:00.000-07:00

My deep appreciation to Kathy Gorish, Organizer, Florida Week for the Animals, and Christy Crabtree of The Animal World for their time and generous hearts in helping spread the word about the book.

This review can be found on page 12 of Animal World USA,
March 2009 issue

The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood by Nadine M. Rosin
Book Review by Christy Crabtree

"If ever there was a doubt in anyone’s mind that animals can heal us, then Nadine M. Rosin’s The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood will dispel that notion. It is an incredible tale of her emotional and physical journey with her dog, Buttons. Through tremendous emotional turmoil, they are there for each other and in the process Rosin learns more about herself than she ever thought possible.

A spiritual adventure, this book highlights holistic pet care particularly dealing with canine cancer. Buttons was diagnosed with cancer and given six weeks to live yet she triumphed for eleven years to the age of nineteen years old! A powerful message about the gifts that the animals bring to us and what we can, in turn, do for them. A blessing to read and a gift to share."

(Paperback: 296 pages Publisher: Wheatmark (May 15, 2008)

DOG WITH A CAUSE

2009-03-11T12:28:00.000-07:00

While The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, reads easy like a novel, there is a bigger purpose behind the book.

Buttons and I want to thank the hundreds of readers who have taken the time to email and share their stories of how the book has helped and touched them. You readers are the book's only marketing department. Thank you for embracing the mission and helping spread the word!

THE BOOK'S 3-FOLD MISSION:

"ANIMAL TRANSLATIONS"

2009-03-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Recently, I had the extreme pleasure of being interviewed by animal communicator, Maureen Harmonay and am delighted to be able to share our hour together here with you. Her questions were deep, insightful and probing. I hope my answers did them justice.

Click on the icon below to listen and please enjoy!

4 PAWS UP FOR "7 DAYS WITH 7 DOGS"

2009-03-03T17:16:00.000-08:00

I'll admit, when a friend gifted me this dvd and I read on the case that it was written, filmed, starred in, and produced all by one small, independent, husband-wife company, my expectations were rather low.

OH MY DOG...was I ever surprised!!! Nothing small-time, unpolished, or unprofessional about this precious gem. It is by far the most engaging, authentically heart-touching film about the human-animal bond I have ever seen.

I laughed, I cried, I moved my body to the music. I delighted in the scenery, cinematography, and seeing other pet parents willing to not only go to any lengths for their animals, but rejoicing in and celebrating those lengths.

Like a really good dream, the emotionalism and beauty of the film stayed with me for more than 7 days! I enthusiastically encourage you to order a copy for yourself, friends and family, and its focus on holistic pet care makes it the perfect companion gift for The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood!

"Seven rescued dogs. Mostly elderly and most with health problems. You want to take them on the trip of a doggie lifetime, but where do you go and what do you do?

In "Seven Days with Seven Dogs", filmmaker and animal psychic Billie Dean and her filmmaker husband Andrew Einspruch bundle their seven rescued dogs from the Ballyoncree Animal Sanctuary and hit the road on a journey of discovery.

Filmed in some of Australia's most beautiful places, and shot by AFI Award winning cinematograhper Anthony Jennings, the documentary follows Suki, Louie, Tala, Twylah, Cedar, Willow and Raffi as they do everything from stay in five-star resort accommodation to taking a horse-drawn gypsy caravan ride.

A short of "Seven Days with Seven Dogs" has already screened at a number of film festivals and on the ABC’s Stateline (ACT). It’s heart warming and fun, and indeed, is getting quite a following.

The full dog-umentary is now available. It's an hour of uplifting entertainment about seven rescued dogs as they journey through some of Australia’s most picturesque country and having the healing holiday of a doggie lifetime."

A BETTER ALTERNATIVE TO RAWHIDE CHEWS

2009-02-25T19:20:00.000-08:00

As I have already shared in an earlier post, the dangers of rawhide include it not being regulated in any way. Some imported brands (China, Philippines) have been reported as soaked in formaldehyde or contaminated with arsenic. These foreign hides may also contain other detrimental things such as antibiotics, insecticides, or lead- things you'd never want your dog to ingest.

Teleconference: The Animal Communication Book Club

2009-02-21T19:56:00.000-08:00

I am honored to be an invited guest and hope you will join me and renown animal communicator, Maureen Harmonay as we discuss
The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood.
This is from her blog:

Talk with Nadine M. Rosin of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood on Thursday, February 26th!

"I'm simply delighted to announce that my guest on the next "Conversations with Animal Authors" teleconference will be Nadine M. Rosin, author of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, a book that's creating a big buzz among animal lovers across the country. I'll be interviewing her "live" on Thursday, February 26th at 8:00pm (EST), and I hope you'll join me.

In The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, Ms. Rosin chronicles her 19-year journey with her beloved dog, Buttons, who was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma when she was eight years old, and given just six weeks to live unless she had her tail amputated and followed a grueling course of radiation and chemotherapy.

Devastated, but undeterred, Nadine refused to accept that grim prognosis, and took matters into her own hands. She tapped into her background as a trained therapeutic bodyworker and created a revolutionary holistic regimen for Buttons, eliminating all household toxins from her environment, cleansing her body of all residual toxins, and giving Buttons' body the nutritional support it needed to heal itself. The results were dramatic. Buttons was not only cured, but she thrived for an additional 11 years, passing peacefully of old age a week before her 19th birthday.

THANK YOU, PENNSYLVANIA!

2009-02-18T08:45:00.000-08:00

"Love for animals obviously is the driving force behind the Action for Animals Humane Society. The emotion was evident Friday evening at the group's third annual "Love Is in the Air" event at Latrobe Country Club.

An hors d'oeuvres and dessert reception with silent auction preceded a talk by Nadine M. Rosin of Tucson, author of "The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood."

Rosin's long resume includes being a holistic bodywork practitioner trained in BioTouch, deep tissue massage, reflexology and zone therapy; an ordained nondenominational minister; and an artist. She says her most rewarding experience has been as a pet parent.

The book tells the story of life with her beloved cockapoo-terrier Buttons; Buttons' cancer diagnosis at age 8; and the holistic healing approach Rosin used to effect a cure that led to an additional 11 years of life for the spunky canine.

She said another purpose in her writing the book was to offer "comfort, camaraderie and validation" to those going through the grieving process after losing a pet.

Action for Animals board president Kathy Newill apprised the audience of the shelter's ongoing work and upcoming events, including a March 28 cash bash, the yearly Auction for the Animals on May 15 and the Walk for the Animals in September.

"Our shelter is always full," Newill said. "But we're seeing more people having trouble keeping their pets in their homes because of this economic downturn."

She said Action for Animals is responding with an outreach program that includes providing food and vaccinations to aid people in providing homes for their pets. The creation of a pet food bank also is being discussed.

Board members at Friday's gathering included Bernadette Braszo, Rita Whiteman, Laura Guskiewicz, Joanne Bergquist, Dr. Hank Croft Jr. and Gretchen Kuhns.

Among the animal lovers were Dr. Mike and Terry Zorch, Eric and Michele Bononi, Wendy Anton, June Anton, Bea Conn, Paula Maloney, Peg Seabol, Regis and Christine Tomsey, Erick Bergquist and Tina McDowell."

-- Shirley McMarlin

♥VALENTINE'S DAY BOOK SIGNING♥

2009-02-10T20:13:00.000-08:00

I will be at the Greensburg, PA PETCO on Saturday, Feb. 14th from noon-3:00 signing copies of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood, and answering any questions you may have. If you or anyone you know are in the area, please drop by and say hi!

Pennsylvania Readers- Please Come Join us on FEB. 13

2009-02-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

6:00pm Latrobe Country Club
$50 ticket donation includes:
Talk, Reading, Q&A, and Sign-dance performance by yours truly.
Hors d' oeuvres, dessert, cash bar, live music, silent auction, gifts
For more information call Laura at 724.850.8802

PREVENTING CANINE CANCER

2009-01-30T11:29:00.001-08:00

Please enjoy this beautiful production by Simone di Santi of
A Road Retraveled

PET INSURANCE: GOOD NEWS IN THE CURRENT ECONOMY

2009-01-27T08:57:00.000-08:00

As the cases of disease and health care costs continue to rise, there is relief to be found in the growing number of compassionate and reliable pet insurance companies. One that I am particularly familiar with and fond of is EMBRACE Pet Insurance and I have heard only good things about them from fellow pet parents. Below is a short excerpt from the EMBRACE web site. Do you have a story regarding pet insurance? Are your pets insured? Please leave your comments below.

"Eight Reasons You Need Pet Insurance

#1 - No Need to Decide Under Emotional Stress
If your pet suddenly falls sick or is injured, the last thing you want to worry about is having to make a trade off between what you feel is right and what you can afford. Pet insurance allows you to avoid life-or-money decisions like these.

#2 - Pets Can Get Sick Any Time
Young dogs eat stuff they shouldn't, indoor cats don't get enough exercise and can become overweight and unhealthy, older pets get arthritis and high blood pressure. Stuff like this happens, you can't really plan for it.

#3 - Do What Is Right, Not What You Can Afford
When you are discussing treatment options with your veterinarian, you want to focus on doing the right thing, not the cost. Pet insurance helps you do that.

#4 - Seemingly Simple Things Can Cost Thousands
A simple fracture can cost $2,000 or $3,000 to repair. Could you pay this if it happened today?

#5 - You Have How Much Saved Up?
You keep saying you want to set aside an emergency fund for veterinary bills ... how much have you saved up so far?

#6 - Vet Costs Rising Faster Than Your Wages
Veterinary care is expensive and continues to get more expensive as it becomes more sophisticated. The statistics say that our wages are having trouble keeping up.

#7 - It's Not Expensive
Pet insurance that is designed properly can help you plan for life's unexpected turns and be inexpensive too.

#8 - Because They Would Do It for You
The unconditional love your pet shows you every day tells you.

Why Choose Embrace?

We looked at the pet insurance market and talked to lots of pet parents like us. We learned that pet parents weren't happy with inflexible pet insurance policies and companies that didn't give you all the facts to make an informed decision.

Here at Embrace we believe that if you don't like the rules of the game then you should change them. So that's what we're doing.

Embrace Pet Insurance offers a customizable policy unlike any other on the market. This means that as a pet parent you decide how much and what type of coverage you want. The days of small, medium, and large are over!

Embrace's policies cover accidents, illnesses, genetic conditions, even alternative and complementary therapies, and chronic illnesses lasting more than one policy year. And we do not cap claims payments per condition."

Fun, New Way to Find Books You'll Love!

2009-01-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

For anyone who loves to read, here is a favorite site of mine. "Flashlight Worthy recommends books so good, they'll keep you up past your bedtime." If you're considering buying my book, or any other from Amazon.com, please consider doing it via the Amazon links on Flashlight Worthy. Then, of course, there's my all time favorite Flashlight Worthy list.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR NEXT BOOK TO READ?
Please leave a comment!

"Why Flashlight Worthy Exists

Amazon sells every book in print, but the choice can be overwhelming. Flashlight Worthy is here to help:

We don't list the best selling books — we list the best books
We don't list 6,072 results when you search for John Irving (including 251 versions of Garp!) — we list each of his 15 books just once.
We don't make you hunt around for hours to find the very best books on parenting — we do the work for you.

Flashlight Worthy is nothing but thoughtful, hand-picked recommendations...
Organized into hundreds of useful, interesting, fun lists...
And all we do is books. :)

How You Can Help Us

Flashlight Worthy is a labor of love. There's just two of us, but we try to add new lists when we can. As a little added encouragement, we get a small referral fee when you buy one of our recommendations from Amazon (and we mean small — usually just enough to buy a Hershey bar)."

THE DOGGY DIALOGUES! Q's & A's: Insatiable Appetite

2009-01-18T12:53:00.000-08:00

As author of The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood and Mom of a dog who survived canine cancer and lived to be 19, people ask me lots of questions about holistic care, senior care, and grief. I am not a vet. Loving pet parent, avid researcher, and inner "roads" scholar are my credentials. That said, please email your questions and let The Doggy Dialogues begin!

Question: from Paula and Zoe

"My baby is a 14 yr old, 3-legged, dog eared, parvo survivor. Her osteoarthritis has been managed very successfully with human grade glucosamine condroitin, along with Rhimadryl for the last 5 years.

I watch her weight very carefully: she gets 1 cup of Canidae platinum with her pills morning and night. I don’t give her treats very often. What I do give her are the end cuttings of any and all vegetables that I prepare for my own meals. This dog will eat any thing! Carrot, celery, tomato, brussel sprout and even onion. Asparagus is one of her all time favorites – she comes a running when she hears me snapping the ends. On the average she is “treated” to raw veggie scraps 2 or 3 times a week.

But, the thing is, this dog is HUNGRY allllll the time. I mean, obsessively. Strangers have accused me of not feeding her. I laugh. She must be kept on a leash at all times, or will quietly and quickly disappear to snack on disgusting morsels other animals wouldn’t touch. Worst of all, she has taken to eating dirt and grass roots by the clumps. Mineral deficiency? Vets say her blood work is fine.

She has also taken to extreme carpet licking, primarily at it’s worst immediately after eating her meal. I don’t really think it’s a pain thing, but an obsession of sorts that I can’t figure out.

What do you know of these behaviors in elderly dogs? Do you have any suggestions regarding the raw veggies – more, less, things to watch out for, etc.,

Thanks for the request for questions, it’s been nice to follow you on twitter."

Dear Paula-

First of all, thank you for your question. I have read in numerous places that onions are toxic to dogs so you'll want to stop giving her those right away. Also, here is some info. on Rimadryl in dogs that, if you haven't already, you may want to consider.

Personally, I believe that Zoe is trying to tell you something and I would consider her communication as important as the vet's. Obviously, her system is not functioning in a balanced way and the cause of that imbalance needs to be addressed before more serious symptoms appear.If it were me, I’d get a second opinion from another vet, preferably, a holistic one. I would go over her entire environment (inner and outer) with a fine toothed comb and see what toxins you may be unconsciously exposing her to that her immune system is being compromised by. After removing those, I would probably add sea meal to her food since there might be a salt/mineral deficiency. In addition, I would consider the possibility of homeopathic cell salts or perhaps a Bach Flower remedy to help cleanse her body of those toxins and then help her body find physical and emotional balance.

Her rubbing her mouth on the carpet after eating is usually a sign of an allergic reaction of some kind. Dogs can be allergic to even the cleanest food ingredients if their systems are already compromised. I would be most careful about the carpet cleaners I was using. Please see my post about possible toxins in her environment.

Her veracious appetite is a symptom of some imbalance, and in my opinion, finding the initial cause is the only satisfactory solution.

Wishing you both the best. Please let us know what happens.

Wishing you vibrant health
and precious moments-
Nadine (and Buttons)

WINTER CARE FOR YOUR DOG FROM HEAD-TO-TAIL

2009-01-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

It has been almost 17 years since Buttons and I stopped her cancer with exclusively holistic methods. Since then, I have come to learn that some people are unable to benefit from holistic medicine because they mistakenly think it means treating with natural remedies in lieu of pharmaceutical drugs.

If you are one of those people, please see my post: Holistic Defined. On the up side, through my online book marketing efforts, I am meeting many pet parents whose pet-related businesses are founded on a more accurately holistic platform.

Head-to-Tail is one of those businesses. Here is a bit about them, and some great tips from them.

"Diet, grooming and regular vet visits take care of your dog physically; training maintains your dog's mental and emotional well-being. Head-to-Tail works to improve the lives of dogs and their owners by building stronger relationships through education and training. Training is provided in a safe, fun and emotionally rewarding environment.

The company is actively involved with rescue efforts through philanthropy and volunteering with local community services. We lead by example of responsible, caring pet ownership. "Educate with respect and compassion for people and dogs alike." The goal is to have healthy, well-mannered pet dogs and happy owners. Real-life situations are addressed with realistic solutions. Only positive reinforcement methods are used.

Trainer Loella Springmann has been working with pet dogs since 1993. Head-to-Tail, Inc. opened for business April 2005 to serve Frederick, MD and surrounding areas. Loella is a Animal Behavioral College Trainer Mentor, certified in Pet First Aid by the American Red Cross and is an active volunteer in the community.

Cold Weather Tips:

Adequate Shelter: While I discourage owners from keeping dogs exclusively outdoors, I realize some people do. Dogs that spend most of the day outside must have appropriate shelter to keep out of wind and precipitation. Even dogs with thick fur can freeze to death. Also be sure to provide plenty of fresh, not frozen, water. Snow and ice put dogs at risk of hypothermia. Be aware that each county has codes specifying minimum restraints, shelter, protection and care for dogs (and other pets) punishable by fines or even jail time. If you are not familiar with the laws in your area, contact your local Animal Control, ASPCA or Humane Society.

Increase Exercise: When weather is relatively mild, walk your dog more frequently. Exercise with boost their metabolism, as well as yours, keeping you both warmer, longer. This is also the best way to alleviate stress! In extreme weather, play some fun indoor games together like Hide-and-Seek.

Watch The Feet: Salts and chemicals on sidewalks and streets can irritate paws. After an outing, wash off their feet, and any other effected areas, with a warm wet cloth. Dogs walking in snowy areas may get large ice balls between their pads, causing the dog to limp. Be sure to keep ice clear from this area. For dogs that have a lot of hair between the pads, keeping the hair trimmed will help reduce ice ball formation. Dog boots are also helpful if your will tolerate wearing them. Coats: Many dog breeds’ fur is not made for wintry weather and some are more sensitive to precipitation. Using an appropriate coat keeps them warmer and drier so you can still get out. Select function over fashion. Look for coats that go on and off easily and allow comfortable movement. Remember to never leave a dog unattended in any kind of “clothing”.

Antifreeze: We can’t be reminded enough…keep pets away from antifreeze. Antifreeze is lethal if ingested. Thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.

Keep The Leash On: According to the ASPCA “Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm—dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours always wears ID tags.” Keeping your dog leashed also allows you to keep them away from potentially harmful substances.

Car Trips: Do NOT leave your dog unattended in a car. When the ignition is off, cold air gets trapped in a car like a refrigerator."

FLYING YOUR PETS IN-CABIN

2009-01-12T21:26:00.001-08:00

One of the first chapters of my book tells of the then harrowing, but now years later, humorous story of Buttons' first cross-country flight. Had THIS airline existed then, I would have considerably less gray hair today.

To find out all about them, please visit their site. For a brief overview- here's how this pet parent-owned, pet-only airline works:

"Welcome to Pet Airways, a Pet Only Airline.
Pets fly in the main cabin, NOT in cargo!

1. Drop your pet off at our Pet Lounge, located at (or very near) an easy-access local airport. You must check in your pet no later than 2 hours before take off. If you choose, you may check in your pet up to 48 hours before the flight. We’ll be happy to board your pet at our PAWS Lodge until the flight.

2. A Potty Break happens less than 2 hours before the flight if pet has been checked in more than 3 hours before the flight.

3. The Pet Limo takes all our pawsengers to the plane an hour before flight time.

4. Pets board the plane and our Pet Attendants make sure they’re all comfortable and that they, and their pet carrier, are secure.

5. A Pet Attendant monitors and checks the comfort of all pawsengers every 15 minutes during the flight. After landing, pets will be disembarked, given a potty break, and board the pet limo for their trip to the Pet Lounge at their destination.

6. Pick up your pet up at the Pet Lounge at your destination, knowing he or she has traveled comfortably and safely in the main cabin of our plane. If you cannot pick up your pet that day, we will be happy to board your pet overnight at the PAWS Lodge.

And don’t forget:

Each time pets move anywhere, from the Pet Lounge to the pet limo or from the pet limo to the plane, we track and record their progress, which means you can monitor your pet’s journey every step of the way online at www.petairways.com

YOUR PET WILL NEVER BE LEFT ALONE. A PET ATTENDANT WILL ALWAYS BE WITHIN A CAT’S MEOW."