"One of the Greatest Love Stories Ever Written"

"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?

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 and/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

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?

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

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!

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!

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

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:

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:

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?

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?

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 quinoa and 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

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

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

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?

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?!?

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

DOES YOUR DOG HAVE A HAPPY STORY?

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

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!