 |
All animals are a treasure. We must treat them as we would rare jewels.
|
Talking-To-Animals Newsletter March 2007
========================================================================= Welcome to the march edition of Talking To Animals newsletter. This month's theme will be senior pets.
If could you draw parallels between the calendar year and the lives of our pets, this would be the time of year for the birthing of baby animals, birds and kittens. Yes, Mother nature fulfills her promise of new life every Spring, . Fat, rolly-poley puppies and wide-eyed fluffy kittens capture or eye and our hearts. As the the seasons go by, so do the seasons in the lives of our pets. All of a sudden, that perky
kitten or puppy is walking slower, sleeping more and could be developing some age-related health problems such as arthritis or diminished hearing and eyesight. Thanks to advances in animal nutrition and veterinary medicine, pets are living longer, healthier lives, just like their owners. It is not uncommon to have cats living to be in their late teens or early twenties. I worked with a client who want to find out some things that were troubling her about her cat. When I asked her how old her cat was, she told me the cat was 26 years old! I was naturally skeptical, but she assured me that was the correct age as she got the kitten when it was 8 weeks old on her seventh birthday. That is a time stamp a young girl would not likely forget! Personally, I enjoy older pets very much. When they become seniors, there is a deep level of trust that
the two of you have established over the years--you are very comfortable with each other and know what to expect from the other. This comes as a result of sharing your lives together. The good times, the bad times and everything in between. From observing your pet's aging, you learn about dignity, rising above the inevitable limitations of aging, learning to take things as they come and savoring the satisfaction of looking into each other's eyes with a deep knowing of the other's soul. I have saved this poem from a breed list I used to be on. Although again, it is slanted toward dogs, I
hope my cat readers can step aside from that and let the beautiful message speak to you as well. It is the same, no matter what the species. Poem : The Autumn Years
What do we do when our loving pets face the last leg of the race? We do all we can to help them finish
well, of course. We take time to read the unspoken needs of the friends we've come to know so well. We give the simple reassurance of a loving touch when the old friend seems confused for no reason.
We groom them faithfully, but more gently, as age brings muscle wasting and the arthritic bones aren't
so well padded. We learn to slow down for their sake, as they enjoy the scent of the wind, or track a visitor's trail
across their yard. We expect to be inconvenienced, and aren't angry when it happens.
We watch for pain and treat it, watch for changes in vision and hearing and do what we can to preserve
those precious senses for as long as possible. We take care of their teeth, and make sure their food is a manageable texture for them.
We remind them of the need for a potty walk when they seem to forget.
We remember the little rewards. We scratch the graying ears and tummy. When the pet we love has an
unexpected need for comfort, we give it freely. When infirmaties bring a sense of vulnerability, we become our old guardian's protector. We watch their deepest slumbers, when dreams take them running across long-forgotten fields too. When
they can't stand alone, we lift them. When their steps are uncertain, we steady them. And if their health fails, it falls to us to make the choice that will gently put them to rest. But until that is
absolutely necessary, we pause to let the sun warm our old friend's bones. And we realize, autumn is not a bad time of year at all. ----- As someone once said, "theere is really only one thing wrong with pets; they don't live long enough." Sad, but so very true. Enjoy the Autumn Years of your pet's life. There is a certain sweetness that comes with these special years. And when that sad day does come, please remember you did your very best for your old friend up until the end. There is also a rich history of special memories of that beloved pet that you will carry in your heart forever.
With blessings,
Charlene
 ========================================================================== 2. BY THE NUMBERS
3. FEATURED ARTICLE: PETITION FOR BELGRADE ZOO Dear Animal Lover, Hello, my name is Sheila and I am a member of the Bearded Collie Club of Southern California. I am grateful for the opportunity of writing to you, caring people, about a situation to help animals. About five minutes of your time is necessary. You really can help by clicking on the site below and adding you signature, comment if you like, or even anonymous. Our family visited friends in this summer. We visited the Belgrade Zoo and were horrified of the conditions there. Unlike the zoos of
as you will read below. When I returned in August, I contacted many organizations including the World Association of Zoos and a myriad of others. Because many complaints from around the world. What was most disturbing was that domesticated dogs are kept in cages or life) Mastiffs, German Shepherds, and Australian Ridgebacks to name three. kept next to wild animals, mountain lions and jaguars. No spay and neutering program is established there yet as there is in in and depressed. My friend in the names are needed. Now there are 3870 signatures already. Please take a minute to read some comments. We are signers 3612 and 3539. Thank you sincerely. If you would like more information from me please feel free to call 949-387-0726 or sheilsun@aol.com. http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/777611166?ltl=1171491961 4. FEATURED STORY: Bart - Bonds of Love Are Eternally Strong I was contacted by Beth W. after she tragically lost her Wire-Haired Doxie, Bart. Bart passed from liver
failure and Beth was devastated since he was a relatively young dog. Bart and his sister, Braitsen, received the very best of care from Beth and her husband. No stone was left unturned in seeking treatment for Bart. Although the veterinarian found nothing conclusive, what I found out from working with Bart's spirit was that he had come into contact with a toxic substance. What I determined that to be was a lawn fertilizer or chemical used by city or county landscaping services to fertilize or control weeds. If your dog plays on city or county grassy areas, please wash their feet off with water upon returning home.
The chemicals used on grass and plants is very toxic to animals. Beth asked if she could write a story about Bart for the newsletter and I was honored by her request as I knew what deep love she still has for her Bart. For many of us, writing and sharing our story helps us heal our loss. I know we all hope that this is true for Beth. --- Bonds of Love Are Eternally Strong by Beth W. 12 ½ years ago this March I looked into the eyes of a six month old standard wire hair dachshund and I knew Three months ago on 27 October 2006, Bart entered the spirit world after a very short and sudden illness. He But through it all, Bart has been right at my side helping me understand that our bond is not broken, it is as strong as Beth
***********************Sponsored Ad*************************************** VetLocator.com is the web's largest directory of Pet Professionals anywhere. Here you can find an easy to use directory of Veterinarians, a Holistic Pet Health Directory and an Other Pet Professionals Directory. For another great newsletter, sign up for VetLocator's Vets-N-Pets-N-Stuff. Each month you'll receive quick and easy-to-read information on pet health news, great pet tips and heartwarming stories along with fantastic money saving offers that will make you and your pet smile. Visit them at www.vetlocator.com ============================================================================= 5. PRESCRIPTION FOR TROUBLE and A WORD TO THE WISE Buying pet meds online might save you cash, but you could end up with a sick pet says Douglas G.
Aspros, DVM, of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Some online pharmacies sell meds without prescriptions or dole out counterfeit or outdated meds. Some are outside the country and are not regulated. If you decide to order online anyway, be cautious. See your vet about your pet's ailments, then make sure the site lists address and phone number and has a state-licensed pharmacy. Check for complaints at the Better Business Bureau (bbb.org). We had workers out to repair a roof that they did not fix correctly the first time. They came in with ladders
and all their equipment and supplies. Since I know how unaware workers can be of animals, I had them all in with me, doggie door closed. When they left, I walked outside to make a quick visual inspection of gates and doors, and guess what?? The door to the back yard was standing wide open! I am overly cautious and make it a point to be home when any work or repairs need to be done. What if you work or away all day? First of all, the workers are not mindful of your pets;they are there to do a job--in and out as fast as possible. If I could not be home, I would rather leave my dog in a closed room or board them out for the day. If an animal, particularly a dog, they can cover great distances in a fairly short period of time. When I was doing lost animal cases, a good percentage were cases of pets lost because workers did not close things up. A little prevention can save much heartache for everyone! PS: this is a perfect opportunity to put in my plug for collars and current ID on pets at all times. Doesn't
do any good if it is on the hook in the laundry room or garage. Charlene 6. A MAJOR PET FOOD RECALL A major manufacturer of dog and cat foods recalled 60 million cans of canned or pouched foods Friday
after reports of kidney failure and about 10 died after eating the affected food, Menu Foods said in announcing the North American recall. Product testing has not revealed a link explaining the reported cases of illness and death, the company said. Please go to their website, www.menufoods.com/recall for a complete list. Consumers with questions can call 866-463-6738. I was surprised at some of the names listed on the website. DID YOU KNOW FOR SENIOR PETS THERE ARE:
Medications for canine and feline senility
Special diets for elderly pet health problems
Therapeutic water aerobics
Ramps to assist getting in and out of cars
Supplements and medications to ease the pain of arthritis
Runners for older pets to navigate slippery floors
Acupuncture and herbs for many health problems with older pets
Massage programs (TTouch) to make your senior pet more comfortable
========================================================================= 7. READERS ASK
=========================================================================looking for advice. (and I am in the process of writing my first eBook on the subject of cat problems because so many cat owners have questions they need answers to. I've done many cat consultations and the reasons cats do what they do is often a very interesting tale to hear). From time to time I'll share a question I've received and answered. Here is one: Question: Why does my pet hate to have his feet worked on? Grooming and nail trimming leave us both exhausted and cranky. Answer: An animal is very aware and protective of their feet and with good reason. In the wild, the
ability to move and get out of danger is a matter of survival. If an animal cannot run or crawl out of danger, they become prey to their enemies. Animals also "ground" themselves through their feet. It is heir connection to Mother Earth. Make grooming and foot care a pleasant experience for the both of you. Start doing one leg a day and reward with a treat and praise.Always stop if they become restless or show signs of stress. Many animals are more comfortable on a bed or lying on the floor for grooming and nail clipping. If nails are not done in a regular basis on dogs, they can become very long and curled, interfering with walking. If your pet is too resistive, have a groomer oir veterinary hospital clip the nails. It is well worth the couple of dollars they charge. --- I received this e-mail from Kathryn about February's issue of Talking-To-Animals: "Re: Talking-To-Animals February 2007 Charlene, Thank you so much for the newsletter, I sit here reading your newsletter with tears in my eyes. With 5 pets
including Belle, a one-eyed Chihuahua who is 13 years old with kidney disease, Bart a 10 year old Manx cat with megacolon (now short colon), Herb, a 10 year old Scottish fold cat, a 5 month old kitten, Lola, who was dropped at my door with Pan Leukopania, blind and impaired and Callie, 4, a cattle dog I found on the highway, I know I am blessed beyond belief with love and purpose. I welcome your words and will save up so I can welcome my pet's words. You read my dog Chance in 2003-4 before he moved on and it was very helpful, . I am now calm about the life span of each instead of being afraid it is too short. I now take it from the position of "When they have fulfilled their purpose, they go....." Its OK with me. I just like to check in with them (and make sure)!! Thank you for sharing what must be a fabulous thrill of a career!
Kathryn Drummer
--------
Thank you Kathryn. It is a fabulous thrill of a career and I am always grateful to know my work helps so many others. Charlene The Gift of LOVE - Gift certificates for your pets:
Are you looking for something unique for that "hard to please" pet lover? A gift certificate for a consultation or a package of consultations for multiple pet households is a perfect gift and eliminates a trip to the mall! One size truly fits all and there is no expiration date! A single consultation is $95 including the tape and $165 for multiple pets. Please e-mail me if you are interested in this hassle-free gift! ========================================================================= 8. DON'T LET YOUR PET BANKRUPT YOU
According to the latest statistics, American pet owners spent $36.3 billion in 2005, up from just $17
billion in 1994. Most of the increase has been due to human shopping weakness! There are a whole lot of new ways to spend money on your pets that is not really necessary. All of the basic stuff you need for your cat and dog haven't really changed but all the "bling" that has come out is for you, not your pet, according to Stephen Zawistowski, vice president for national programs at the ASPCA in New York. Here are some ways to save on pet care: Take care of some of your pets needs yourself. Brush your pet's teeth in between vet dental cleaning.
Ask your vet if that annual vaccine is really necessary. Vaccine protocols have changed recently. That
change was to prevent over vaccinating, but it also saves you money. Shop medications. did you know that some medications such as antibiotics can be filled at Costco or
Walgreens at substantial savings? Shop for a veterinarian by comparing fees. But don't sacrifice quality.
Shop for pet supplies. The large chain pet supply stores sell cat litter in bulk at a considerable saving. They
also carry pet foods of higher quality nutrition than what you can buy in the supermarket, and you end up with a healthier pet. Do you really need it? Clothes and fancy bags to carry your pet around in are a completely unnecessary
expense. Your pet would appreciate a little extra time with you instead. Consider pet insurance. Pet insurance is a better deal than a couple of years ago. You can purchase
plans for routine expenses or for catastrophic events. Read the exclusions very carefully so you get what you are looking for. Think twice before adding pets. Better to have fewer pets and take extra good care of those rather than
skimp on a pet due to financial reasons. Don't buy the cheapest food. Higher quality food helps keep your pet in tip top shape. As the old saying
goes, "you are what you eat." Look for foods made with human-grade ingredients. Don't overfeed. Many people feed more than the package guidelines. Feeding the right amount saves on
food costs---which are about 40% of a pet owners total costs. Spay or neuter your pet early. Spayed and neutered pets have fewer health problems. also, once neutered,
they roam significantly less, so they are not getting hit by cars ========================================================================= 9. THE TAIL END In today's world, there are so many worries, problems and concerns that affect our world in so many
ways. It is easy to become weighed down and discouraged. Our wonderful pets allow us to forget, if only briefly, our worries and concerns and connect to their unwavering love and joy. When I come in through the garage and I hear the barking of the dogs in excited anticipation of my return, all the trials and tribulations of the day are quickly forgotten; replaced by the bright eyes and wagging tails. Even the cat wakes up, stretches and saunters in to say hello, taking time to rub up against my legs, adeptly maneuvering the three dogs. These are some of the most important moments of my day. It always lets me know and feel that all is
well and we are all safe and happy, surrounded by the glow of love and happiness. May you and your most special pets know and appreciate the special moments in your daily lives. Bless and be grateful each day for what you have and the love you share together. Blessed are those of us who know and appreciate animals!
Blessings,
Charlene
========================================================================== Mission Statement: "I feel that my primary role as an animal communicator is to speak the truth for the animals. By speaking their truth I am able to share with their owners their unique perspectives and spiritual philosophies. The special bond that companion animals share with their owners is one that is built on love and trust. Through this special relationship both owners and their animals have an opportunity to experience love, trust and mutual understanding. It is the key to all relationships we develop with our pets. As we become more sensitive to our pets, we learn that we are all One, created by the same Divine spirit. Our ultimate goal is to live in harmony and joy with the animals we love and cherish." Charlene Boyd To all my readers, I always look forward to hearing from you and I do answer each and every email I receive. If you would like to email or call me to talk about your pet and any help I might give, my number is 877.907.1741 or charlene@talk-to-animals.com. ======================================================================= TALKING TO ANIMALS Monthly Newsletter, talk-to-animals.com and Charlene Boyd, Animal Communicator are trademarks of Charlene Boyd, Animal Communicator, Coto de Caza, California, USA Phone 877 907-1741. Copyright 2006, Charlene Boyd, Animal Communicator. You are welcome to forward this entire newsletter to friends. Please visit my website for articles you may publish and share freely! --> http://www.talk-to-animals.com/aandr.htm ======================================================================= To find out more about animal communication and to visit our newsletter archive, please go to our website at www.talk-to-animals.com. To contact Charlene regarding a lost animal, animal behavior problems or the death of your pet, email her at charlene@talk-to-animals or call 877 907-1741.
Articles By Charlene |
||||||||||||||||||
| Enhancing love, respect, and understanding between you and your animal friend | All content ©2001-2007 Charlene Boyd |