Tuesday, September 30, 2008

World Animal Day

Mentionables

World Animal Day - October 4 - This Year And Every Year
World Animal Day was started in 1931 at a convention of ecologists in Florence as a way of highlighting the plight of endangered species. Since then it has grown to encompass all kinds of animal life and is widely celebrated in countries throughout the world. October 4 was chosen as World Animal Day as it is the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. It is intended as a day of celebration for anyone in the world who cares about animals. It is not restricted to any one nationality, creed, religion, political belief or ideology.

Since the official World Animal Day website, www.worldanimalday.org.uk/index.asp, was launched in 2003, the number of World Animal Day events taking place throughout the world has increased year upon year and with your help the trend continues. And that is the aim of this website, to encourage everybody to use this special day to commemorate their love and respect for animals by doing something special to highlight the importance of animals in the world. On this website you will find everything you need to make World Animal Day a reality in your area.


Joy's Schedule

Thank you to all who came to A Shindig@PetsEnergy/Shoreline last Saturday. Great to see old friends and meet new ones.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On Saturday, October 11 from 1 - 3 PM - Open Forum - Joy will be your medium for these enlightening two hours. Do you have loved ones, animals or humans, on the other side you would like to speak with? Would you like to know what your animals are thinking and feeling? Would you like the perspective of your Soul and Spiritual Guides about anything in your life? Come to Flat Majic Books And Gifts which is located at 822 SW 152nd St, Burien, WA (206)244-9537. Cost is $25.

Radio Show
Tune in to Talk With Your Animals on Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM Pacific Time either on the radio if you live in the Seattle area or over the Internet by going to www.talkwithyouranimals.com then to the radio show links page and click on the listen live button for KKNW. The show can also be heard live on www.1150kknw.com. The radio show replays on www.animalradio.com. Check that website for the times in your area. If you are interested in calling in to ask a question of your pet on Wednesdays, the telephone number is 425-373-5527. The toll free number if you are in Western Washington is 1-888-298-5569.

Talk With Your Animals is brought to you by Optimum Choices - www.optimumchoices.com, Pet Essences - www.petessences.com, The Natural Pet Pantry - www.naturalpetpantry.com, Natural Horse Talk - www.naturalhorsetalk.com, Dooley's Dog House - www.dooleysdoghouse.com, Nurtural Horse - www.nurturalhorse.com and ScratchnAll - www.scratchnall.com, Waggin' Tails Cookies, Inc. - www.waggintailscookies.com and our mention - Holistic Horse Magazine - www.holistichorse.com. Please let these wonderful people know that Joy sent you.

From The Wonderful Folks Who Support Talk With Your AnimalsAre you worried about cancer and other diseases for your animal? Are you sick of playing the guessing game and paying hundreds of dollars for supplements that may or may not work? If you are looking for peace of mind, look no more. Come learn how 20 years of Soviet animal research has produced Bio-Algae Concentrates (Bio-Preparation), a 100% natural and proven solution for your animal's health.
Attend a 2 hour seminar Monday October 13th at 6:45PM at the Seattle Airport/Doubletree Guest Suites, at 16500 Southcenter Parkway put on by Roland Thomas. The cost is 20$ at the door or save $10 if you book in advance. For registration or more information call toll free 877-288-9116 or visit online at www.foodforthoughtseminars.com

Monday, September 29, 2008

A Gift from Nikki

A Gift from Nikki:
What My Dog’s Final Months Taught Me


by Shigeko Ito

The last three months were an especially difficult journey for me as I watched our beloved Golden Retriever, Nikki, lose her battle against cancer. Losing animals (particularly dogs) has always been one of the toughest things for me to go through and to cope with, and this was my first experience to lose a dog to cancer. But this heartbreaking experience taught me invaluable lessons, and I feel that I have developed more compassion and have grown stronger emotionally and spiritually for it.

Last October we discovered that Nikki had developed two types of cancer (mast cell tumor and sarcoma) simultaneously. For ten days following this initial diagnosis (on 10/10/07), I cried off and on throughout each day even before finding out how bad her case might be. Then more bad news followed. It was the final straw to discover through an X-ray a week later, on the day one of her mast cell tumors was surgically removed, that the cancer had already metastasized to her lungs. Her cancer was so advanced that there was not much we could do to save her life. Aggressive chemo and/or radiation therapy at that point would have been just palliative at best while severely compromising her quality of life, so we made a conscious decision not to seek the cancer treatment. We knew that her cancer was bad, but didn’t know her exact prognosis, such as how long she would live. It was an agonizing situation, but we decided just to let her enjoy her remaining time with us. But this was easier said than done. As I dedicated my heart and soul in hospice care for the last three months of her life, I didn’t realize until then how excruciating and stressful of an experience it was to live with and care for a dying dog. As I became preoccupied with caring for her, I put my entire life on hold.

Shortly after her diagnosis, I gathered information on cancer in Golden Retrievers, and found that a staggering 60% die from cancer, and that it is their #1 cause of death. Cancer is on the rise among dogs in general, but this genetic predisposition seems to be particularly prominent among Goldens. As common and popular as Golden are, surprisingly most people seem to be unaware of their high cancer risk. I tried to learn which environmental causes (diet, lack of exercise, over-vaccination, microchip, etc.) might possibly have contributed to her metastatic cancer, but there appeared to be very little research done in this area. Through an internet CanineCancer support group, however, I felt supported and comforted to know that there are many others who had been, or were going through similar heartbreaking experiences.

I passed through at least three of the “Five Stages of Grief” in a very quick fashion. First I was shocked and devastated, and then I was angry at life thinking that it was conspiring against us. I also blamed myself for not being able to detect her cancer sooner. As I grieved, I felt many regrets and started to beat myself up by saying, for example, “I should have taken for more walks and given her a better diet. I am unworthy of her love, I did not deserve her.” Every morning I would wake up to be relieved that she was still breathing. It was sad to see a vivid contrast between the incision from the removal of a tumor that was healing beautifully, and signs that her cancer was progressing rapidly, such as bloody urine, difficulty walking, vomiting, etc. At times I was reluctant to touch her, afraid to find more new scary looking bumps spreading and growing throughout her body. It was so very hard to witness this entire process of her deterioration.

One day when I saw her taking things in amazing stride, being in the moment, and living each day to the fullest and with dignity, I suddenly realized that it was NOT OK for me to get stuck in this distraught and grief-stricken state of mind. I had to be strong for her and my family so that I could take better care of them, especially of her. This awareness helped me shift my gears to start embracing this very intense, fast-moving “spiritual training” journey. As I immersed myself into the moment, I became more mindful of daily experiences, and accepted them for what they were and then let go of negativities (i.e., shouldas, wouldas, couldas). I started to feel less guilty and hold fewer regrets, and stopped clinging to or blowing things out of proportion by ruminating and dwelling on the drama, which I was so accustomed to doing in the past. I then remembered what an acquaintance told me before: “Don't try to figure out why “bad” things are happening to you, nor see each experience as neither good or bad, you are just living life.” Indeed, when I attach meanings or interpret life events based on my preexisting memories of “negative” experiences, I allow my conditioned mind to control over me. Then I start ruminating, lose perspective and fail to be in the present moment to experience things for what they are. I thought, “aha! So this WAS a sure formula for despondency and depression!”

Each day was bittersweet, but still I tried my best to live in the present so that I could savor and cherish each and every moment I had with her. I immensely enjoyed spending lots of time cuddling up and spooning with her while giving her favorite gentle tummy rubs. And oh, how I loved her smell that was so earthy and comforting—her ears smelled like roasted mushrooms, her paws slightly burnt aired popcorn, and her fur just like hay. As I snuggled up to her, her calm warmth and gentleness instantly vanished any negativity, and uplifted me. I took her for many walks and car rides everywhere I went. I switched her to a cancer diet (high protein, low carb and no grain), and provided homemade gourmet dog meals each day with all kinds of high quality meat, along with supplements and Chinese herbs (prescribed by our veterinarian) to strengthen her immune system with the hope that she might be able to fight off the cancer. As her appetite steadily declined, I bought at least two dozen kinds of special dog treats for her to try, as well as regular people food and just about anything else, desperately trying to entice her to eat something.

Although she had been very stoic and did not communicate to us how much suffering she was enduring, her physical body manifested many signs of distress. There were metastatic tumors all over her body. Her labored breathing indicated dysfunction of her lungs, and swollen legs that her heart was not pumping her blood properly and perhaps a lack of protein for she was not eating much. Her appetite steadily declined and she ate almost nothing at all during her last weeks. Then sadly, she was no longer interested in going for a walk—an activity that she used to love so much.

As her breathing became even more labored, my husband and I finally made the agonizing decision on one weekend in January to put her down and scheduled the appointment at a vet’s within five days. However, she quickly deteriorated over that weekend, so we decided to put her to sleep sooner, on Monday. I was undecided whether I would accompany her to the vet, but my husband suggested that I should say good-bye to her at home, because it would be too traumatic for me otherwise. On Sunday night before going to bed, I sat next to her and caressed her. Tears kept falling onto my hand as I gently stroked her head. Then all of a sudden she lifted up her head and started licking my tears away fervidly, showing me her affection and more life force than I had seen in a while. I tried to keep my tears in check while kissing her and whispering into her ears, “What a sweet dog… I love you so much. Good night…”

On Monday morning, I thought that she might be awfully uncomfortable for not having peed since Sunday afternoon despite having drunk a lot of water, so I pushed her to go outside even though she was very reluctant. It took her a while, but I helped her get up and she finally went. But perhaps because she was so close to the end, it must have used up all of her remaining energy. As soon as she came back inside, she plopped down on her bed in the entryway and gasped for air. I helped her lie down, but could not remain with her then as I had to get ready to take my son to school. I asked my son to stay with her in the meantime and say good-bye to her because she would be gone by the time he returned from school. I was gone for less than 5 minutes, but by the time I came back to check, her eyes and mouth were wide open with her tongue drooped onto her bed. She was very still and quiet: I heard no more hard breathing, and her chest was no longer moving. She was already gone. Apparently my son didn’t know what was happening, but nonetheless looked sad, scared and startled as he stared at her. I rested my hand on her chest, and then shouted, “Nikki! Nikki!

Oh, my God, she… she has just DIED!!” I trembled as I picked up the phone immediately to call my husband at work to let him know about her passing, and he said that he would come home right away. My son had stayed with her for the whole time and had even taken the very last pictures of her. He was on the verge of crying. “She opened her mouth real wide, and then her tongue just hung down on one side…” Tears filled up in his eyes as he described her last minute. We both gazed at her body lying down lifelessly in her bed for a moment, and then gave her a hug, and to each other crying uncontrollably before heading out to his school.

While driving my son to school, the idea crossed my mind briefly that I might have actually accelerated her passing by forcing her to go out and pee. But soon I realized that it was in a sense a blessing that she did not have to go to the veterinarian’s. She was always terrified to go there, and I did not want to see her being traumatized until the last minutes of her life. Besides, who knows, even just the sight of the office might have shocked and killed her. It would also have been much more traumatic for us to end her life with an injection. I was deeply saddened, but was at the same time somewhat relieved that her suffering was over.

Later I saw flashbacks of her quirky adorable habits that used to make us laugh: her signature style of sitting totally flat like a bear skin rug with her hind legs totally relaxed looking like a run-over frog’s, and of sleeping with a stuffed snow goose held in her mouth like a pacifier. It was her favorite toy, so beat-up and stained that it looked more like a dirty imposter chicken in the “Foster Farm Chicken” commercial than a snow goose. It was a bittersweet moment, and I started to miss her terribly already.

I believe that there is something mystical about animals, and Nikki was certainly no exception. I wouldn’t be surprised if she knew what might happen to her next, and if she might have even chosen her own timing, where and how she wanted to die. She fought very bravely to the end. It was almost surreal when she exited so quietly and peacefully while lying down in her own favorite bed at home, surrounded by lots of love, one day short of her eighth birthday. There was something about the way of her passing that seemed so serene, sacred and gentle. And somehow, the way she went with grace and dignity was quite fitting for her, who shared with us her devotion, love, joy and compassion.

The three months since her diagnosis felt very short, but long at the same time. As difficult and heartbreaking as it was, I am grateful for the period that she gave us—a gift and opportunity to show how much we loved and cared for her. The time also helped us prepare emotionally to say good-bye to her. I can still burst into tears at any moment whenever I see other Goldens or pictures of them at grocery or pet stores, and am reminded how much I miss her. (The problem of this breed is not only their genetic predisposition to cancer, but also their popularity that I can’t avoid seeing them everywhere.) Some friends and relatives sometimes tell me, “That’s why we don’t have pets. We don’t want to go through the type of agony you’ve been going through.” But I always respond, “It’s better to have loved and lost, than not to have loved at all.” I can only hope that this tremendous sense of loss will become a little easier and less painful to bear as time goes by.

We couldn’t have possibly asked for a more perfect dog than Nikki. I am forever grateful to her for helping us raise our family. Some might say, “What? Dog? Raising a family?” But yes, she truly did, simply by her presence. She provided a tremendous source of comfort and joy at a time when I needed it most. My husband had just begun the most challenging phase of medical residency training, and I was struggling with my first time motherhood and my son’s health complications in a totally new environment in which I knew no one to turn to for help.

Since her passing, I’ve been displaying a shrine with a large picture of her in our front hallway where she spent her last weeks (because she had no longer been able to climb up and down the stairs). Underneath her picture is an urn containing her ashes, along with flowers, candles, water, dog treats, her favorite toys and a statue of St. Francis. I keep candle lights burning to honor her spirit. In early November I hired a professional dog photographer to take pictures of her, and those pictures, too, have been displayed throughout our house as a remembrance of her gentle and loving spirit.

After all, through this experience I realized once again the importance of savoring and cherishing each and every moment by immersing myself into it—a timeless message of life Nikki showed me simply by her way of being. This was a gift from her.

Godspeed, dearest Nikki… Thank you for all of the wonderful memories. I will always love you with all my heart.

Copyright © 2008 Shigeko Ito

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Helping Our Animal Friends

Mentionables
7th Annual Budkis Fund fundraiser will be held Saturday, September 27th starting 5:30 pm at the Renton Technical College, Renton, WA. The evening’s events will include dinner, a silent and live auction, a raffle, and some fun games. Tickets are $50 in advance. To reserve a seat for this fun and worthwhile event, email thebudkisfund@gmail.com
The Budkis Fund has been established to help low-income seniors living in the Puget Sound Community cover their emergency pet care through generous tax deductible donations. They gratefully accept all contributions, large or small. Make a donation today and offer a local senior citizen the opportunity to save their beloved companion. www.budkischarbonneaufund.com

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PETSTYLE TAKES LEAD IN PROVIDING RESOURCE FOR FAMILIES FACING FORECLOSURE CRISIS IN AMERICA

Comprehensive Information Available at http://www.petstyle.com for Those in Need as Well As Those Who Want to Help

In light of the current mortgage crisis, it's projected that even more families will face the possibility of foreclosure. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, 250,000 new families are entering into foreclosure every three months. Many of these families impacted by the possibility of foreclosure have dogs and/or cats and may be forced to rent in apartment complexes or homes that do not allow pets.

In response, PetStyle has created an online information and resource center for people who are facing the possibility of foreclosure and faced with making decisions about what to do with their cats or dogs. Additionally, people who want to assist those in need by providing dog or cat foster homes and adoptions can do so through PetStyle's active online community. Located at www.petstyle.com, dog and cat owners are encouraged to take advantage of all the tips, checklists and other valuable information available to make sure their pets are taken care of in the event they are in jeopardy of or are about to lose their homes.

The PetStyle Resource Center includes:
- Valuable tips, tools, and articles to make the foreclosure transition easier - either keeping your pet or in the worse case you must surrender your pet.
- HSUS Foreclosure Fund information and a link to a donation form.
- Special message board setup at PetStyle.com to lend a helping hand to those in need.
- Printable fact sheet.

Visit PetStyle's lifestyle network at www.petstyle.com.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joy's Schedule
Saturday, September 27 from 11 - 4 PM - A Shindig@PetsEnergy/Shoreline - Check out PetsEnergy's new store in Shoreline, WA. Visit with Pet Rescue groups, Receive samples from Pet Food Vendors as well as have a mini-session with Joy. 5 minutes $15. PetsEnergy/Shoreline is located 15407 Westminster Way N #5A-1, Shoreline, WA. For more information call (206)838-5356.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Radio Show
Wednesday, September 24 Joy's guests are

From 12:00 to 12:30 PM PT Wendy Shankin-Cohen, President & CEO of Dr. Harveys. She will be discussing "How to Feed Your Pets Naturally for Optimal Health and Longevity". For more information about Dr. Harveys, please visit www.drharveys.com

From 12:30 to 1:00 PM PT Liz Mitten Ryan, author of One with the Herd: A Spiritual Journey receives 5 star review. It has been called a classic - a timeless book to be read. For more information, please visit www.lizmittenryan.com

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tune in to Talk With Your Animals on Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM Pacific Time either on the radio if you live in the Seattle area or over the Internet by going to www.talkwithyouranimals.com then to the radio show links page and click on the listen live button for KKNW. The show can also be heard live on www.1150kknw.com. The radio show replays on www.animalradio.com. Check that website for the times in your area. If you are interested in calling in to ask a question of your pet on Wednesdays, the telephone number is 425-373-5527. The toll free number if you are in Western Washington is 1-888-298-5569.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Talk With Your Animals is brought to you by Optimum Choices - www.optimumchoices.com, Pet Essences - www.petessences.com, The Natural Pet Pantry - www.naturalpetpantry.com, Natural Horse Talk - www.naturalhorsetalk.com, Dooley's Dog House - www.dooleysdoghouse.com, Nurtural Horse - www.nurturalhorse.com and ScratchnAll - www.scratchnall.com, Waggin' Tails Cookies, Inc. - www.waggintailscookies.com and our mention - Holistic Horse Magazine - www.holistichorse.com. Please let these wonderful people know that Joy sent you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From The Wonderful Folks Who Support Talk With Your Animals

From Cynthia of www.scratchnall.com - Interlocking, Self-Enriching, Scratching Pad For ALL Animals and people too! - Scratch n All will be listed in Valley Vet (www.valleyvet.com) Christmas catalogue.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal Communication Classes

The next basic animal communication class is scheduled for September of 2009.

The next Intermediate Animal Communication Class will be held Saturday and Sunday November 1 & 2 from 12 to 5 PM both days in Yelm, WA. Basic Animal Communication Class is a pre-requisite. We’ll continue to work on deepening your connection with animals and strengthening your communication skills as well as answering any questions you have from your previous experience in communicating with animals. Be sure to bring your list of questions to the first day of class. This class will focus on learning how to address issues and questions from the animal’s human. To reserve your spot and get directions, please call Martha at 206-850-6485 or e-mail her at Martha@TalkWithYourAnimals.com. To receive the discounted rate of $250, please pay by October 18. $100 deposit is required to reserve your spot.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

For the Birds

Mentionables
4th Annual Bird Mart is being held Saturday, September 20 from 10 AM to 4 PM at Kitsap County Fairgrounds, Presidents Hall, 1200 Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton, WA. Come Spend the Day, see what's new, shop, eat, visit with bird friends, win some prizes! Free Parking! For more information, call 360-876-7755 or visit www.olympicbirdfanciers.com

BIRDS ON BROADWAY*****
WHAT: American Idol has gone to the birds....literally. WebVet.com (www.webvet.com), the most comprehensive and credible online resource for pet health and wellness information and education, announces the launch of America’s Birds on Broadway 2008 contest, an online search for the country’s most talented parrots, canaries and other winged animals.

Tuesday, September 16th, a variety of singing and dancing birds entertained tourists and anyone who could hear the talented bird squad as they competed in their own bird reality competition in the heart of New York City.

CONTEST: From 10:00am EST on Tuesday, September 16th through 11:59pm EST on Tuesday, October 14th, bird owners from across the country can log onto www.webvet.com/songbird and submit a maximum two minute video of their bird’s top talent – from belting out Broadway tunes to breaking out “Saturday Night Fever” style dance moves and more. The winner of this inaugural online video contest, to be announced on Wednesday, October 29th, will receive a grand prize of $2,500 and will also be offered the opportunity to make live appearances on behalf of WebVet.

Once uploaded, WebVet’s panel of judges composed of top-flight veterinarians and music industry professionals will provide ongoing commentary on the performances and narrow the field to the top three most promising song birds. Finalists will be unveiled on WebVet.com on Tuesday, October 21st.

From 10:00am EST on October 21st through 11:59pm EST on Tuesday, October 28th, the public is invited to log onto WebVet.com and vote for the bird they believe has the most talent. The winner of America’s Song Bird will be announced at WebVet.com on Wednesday, October 29th.

Pocket-Sized Guide Makes Bird Watching, America’s Fastest Growing Outdoor Activity, Easy for Beginners
Stunning full-page color photographs of the 265 birds of the Inland Northwest and Northern Rockies (Idaho, Eastern Washington, Eastern Oregon, and Western Montana) along with their descriptions, the basics of bird watching, and a regional checklist.

It’s a stunning figure: over six hundred thousand people in the Inland Northwest and Northern Rockies feed or watch birds. Consequently, Birds of the Inland Northwest and Northern Rockies is the perfect guide for these individuals who are interested in the birds in their backyards.

Sharp, full-color photographs, color coding by species, a compact, easy-to-carry size, and space to record sightings make this a useful tool for those interested in learning how to identify the local birds and where they live, what they eat, how to attract birds to their yards, and where to find new birds.

Birding is fun for individuals and families alike. As the authors say, “It is easy to get started, inexpensive, improves your observation skills, and allows us to appreciate the natural world and the careful stewardship it requires.”

Birds of the Inland Northwest and Northern Rockies by Harry Nehls, Mike Denny, and Dave Trochlell is available at www.rwmorse.com and at chain and independent bookstores, wild bird and nature shops, national park visitor centers, feed stores, nurseries and garden centers everywhere. Softcover; $18.95 EAN: 9780964081062

Radio Show
Tune in to Talk With Your Animals on Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM Pacific Time either on the radio if you live in the Seattle area or over the Internet by going to www.talkwithyouranimals.com then to the radio show links page and click on the listen live button for KKNW. The show can also be heard live on www.1150kknw.com. The radio show replays on www.animalradio.com. Check that website for the times in your area. If you are interested in calling in to ask a question of your pet on Wednesdays, the telephone number is 425-373-5527. The toll free number if you are in Western Washington is 1-888-298-5569.

Talk With Your Animals is brought to you by Optimum Choices - www.optimumchoices.com, Pet Essences - www.petessences.com, The Natural Pet Pantry - www.naturalpetpantry.com, Natural Horse Talk - www.naturalhorsetalk.com, Dooley's Dog House - www.dooleysdoghouse.com, Nurtural Horse - www.nurturalhorse.com and ScratchnAll - www.scratchnall.com, Waggin' Tails Cookies, Inc. - www.waggintailscookies.com and our mention - Holistic Horse Magazine - www.holistichorse.com. Please let these wonderful people know that Joy sent you.

From The Wonderful Folks Who Support Talk With Your Animals

Have you seen our unique treat machine that lets your dog choose his own treat with the flick of the paw? It's in our Fun Stuff Section along with colorful leashes that can be embroidered with your dog's name along with great treat jars to store those Waggin' Tail Liver Cookies of Love. It's all at www.livercookies.com/funstuffstore.htm

Basic Animal Communication ClassStill a few spots open for the next Basic Animal Communication Class this Saturday and Sunday on September 20 & 21 from 12 to 5 PM both days in Yelm, WA. The first day you will learn the theory on how to communicate, find your best way to communicate with animals, and practice with Joy's animal kids. The second day you bring your animal kid to class and practice with yours as well as with other participants' animal kids. To reserve your spot and get directions, please call Martha at 206-850-6485 or e-mail her at Martha@TalkWithYourAnimals.com. The price is $300. Also, let Martha know if you are interested in carpooling, she will be glad to give you contact information for participants in your area. For those of you wondering when the next basic animal communication class will be held, it is scheduled for September of 2009.

Monday, September 15, 2008

A Pet's Ten Commandments

Thought you'd find this interesting. Talk about animal intelligence and
bonding with humans!
Remember that they can't do a lot of things for themselves and that they
depend on you to make their life a quality life!
A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely
to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You
have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your
voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you,
and yet, I choose not to bite you.


8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if
something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have
been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.


9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.


10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you
can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for
me if you are there, because I love you so.


~Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care
of them.
Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters
~Now please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for
Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and
has four legs!

Tuesday, September 09, 2008

BioSuperfood/BioPreparation

Radio Show
Wednesday, September 10 Joy's guest is Russell Louie of Optimum Choices, one of our wonderful supporters of the radio show. Learn how BioSuperfood/BioPreparation, micro algae dietary supplement, activates your pet's body as well as your own natural ability to heal. Russell does not sell natural supplements or holistic supplements that just "fix" the symptoms. He offers true holistic pet supplements as well as provides a wealth of information on holistic pet care. Telephone # 866-305-2306. For more information, please visit www.OptimumChoices.com.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tune in to Talk With Your Animals on Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM Pacific Time either on the radio if you live in the Seattle area or over the Internet by going to www.talkwithyouranimals.com then to the radio show links page and click on the listen live button for KKNW. The show can also be heard live on www.1150kknw.com. The radio show replays on www.animalradio.com. Check that website for the times in your area. If you are interested in calling in to ask a question of your pet on Wednesdays, the telephone number is 425-373-5527. The toll free number if you are in Western Washington is 1-888-298-5569.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Talk With Your Animals is brought to you by Optimum Choices - www.optimumchoices.com, Pet Essences - www.petessences.com, The Natural Pet Pantry - www.naturalpetpantry.com, Natural Horse Talk - www.naturalhorsetalk.com, Dooley's Dog House - www.dooleysdoghouse.com, Nurtural Horse - www.nurturalhorse.com and ScratchnAll - www.scratchnall.com, Waggin' Tails Cookies, Inc. - www.waggintailscookies.com and our mention - Holistic Horse Magazine - www.holistichorse.com. Please let these wonderful people know that Joy sent you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From The Wonderful Folks Who Support Talk With Your Animals

Saturday, September 13 Adoption Event with Purrfect Pals from 11 AM to 4 PM will be held at Dooley's Dog House at 1421 Market Street, Kirkland, WA. Tel #425-889-2200. A group of wonderful kittens and cats looking for forever homes. They all are spayed/neutered, microchipped, viral tested, and started on vaccinations. Please visit www.dooleysdoghouse.com or www.purrfectpals.org


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Basic Animal Communication Class
The next Basic Animal Communication Class will be held Saturday and Sunday on September 20 & 21 from 12 to 5 PM both days in Yelm, WA. The first day you will learn the theory on how to communicate, find your best way to communicate with animals, and practice with Joy's animal kids. The second day you bring your animal kid to class and practice with yours as well as with other participants' animal kids. To reserve your spot and get directions, please call Martha at 206-850-6485 or e-mail her at Martha@TalkWithYourAnimals.com. The price is $300. Also, let Martha know if you are interested in carpooling, she will be glad to give you contact information for participants in your area. For those of you wondering when the next basic animal communication class will be held, it is scheduled for September of 2009.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joy's Schedule
Thank you to all who came to PAWSwalk on Saturday and Olympic Bird Fanciers Club on Sunday. A fun time was had by all! Joy will be at PetsEnergy in Shoreline, WA on Saturday, September 27 from 12 - 4 PM. Tel # (206)838-5356
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mentionables
Cabela's Dog Accessories Catalog That dog don’t hunt – Cabela’s says no problem Cabela’s is introducing a new catalog dedicated to dogs and the people who love them. For years Cabela’s has supplied sporting dog owners with the products they need to keep their field dogs performing at their peak. Now they’ve taken that expertise and channeled it into a product assortment perfect for family dogs large and small. The dog accessories catalog will hit mailboxes in late September and will feature a canine collection up to 56 pages long. For a free catalog, call 800-272-2594 or point your browser to www.cabelas.com


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14 Reasons to Rush Your Pet to Vet Emergency by www.SixWise.com
In the United States, 39 percent of households have at least one dog, and nearly 34 percent have at least one cat, reports the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Keeping these furry family members healthy is a top priority for most pet owners, yet knowing when there's a problem can be tricky. Neither dogs nor cats are complainers, and they generally will not make crying or yelping noises unless they are in extreme pain. Cats, meanwhile, may purr if they feel sick or if they're content, while dogs, being pack animals by nature, will often downplay any signs of illness for fear of being cast off by their "pack" (a.k.a. you).

So how is a responsible pet owner to know when something's really wrong versus when a regular vet appointment two or three days away will do? You know your pet best, and generally if you notice any changes in eating, drinking, personality, or activity -- or see excessive scratching, head shaking, vomiting, or diarrhea -- a trip to the vet is in order.

The following symptoms, however, are all cause for alarm, meaning you should rush your pet to the nearest 24-hour vet emergency clinic if you see any of these signs:

1. Swollen, tight abdomen: This is a symptom of bloat in dogs. Bloat is the second leading killer in dogs (after cancer) and can kill a dog in less than an hour. Bloat occurs when a dog swallows too much air (from eating too fast, for instance) and the stomach swells, rotates and twists, blocking veins in the abdomen and leading to shock and organ damage. Other symptoms of bloat that should never be ignored include a hunched up appearance and numerous attempts to vomit (often unsuccessfully).

2. Labored breathing

3. Unconsciousness

4. Lethargy: This can be a sign of many life-threatening illnesses, including poisoning, rabies, brucellosis and more.

5. Bloody diarrhea: Sometimes caused by bacterial infection from E. coli or campylobacter (dysentery in humans).

6. Thick mucous from the anus (without a bowel movement): This may indicate a bowel obstruction, which can be life-threatening.

7. Vomiting blood: May occur if your pet ate something sharp (that caused puncture wounds) or may indicate poisoning, ulcers, blood disorders or cancer.

8. Collapse or sudden inability to walk or stand: This could be due to shock, poisoning or electrocution.

9. Heatstroke: Heavy panting, rapid pulse, vomiting and lethargy are all danger signs if your pet has been outdoors in hot weather. If you notice any of these, bring your pet inside and apply cool, wet towels. Get to the emergency vet immediately.

10. Dehydration: If your pet has had severe diarrhea, he may be severely dehydrated. A sign of this is skin or fur that loses its elasticity and doesn't snap back when gently pulled.

11. Profuse bleeding: This can be caused by a road accident, an attack by a wild or loose animal, or a fall.

12. Seizure: This can result from a head injury or epilepsy.

13. Unusual temperature: A fever over 105 degrees F, or a temperature under 98 degrees F (hypothermia) needs immediate attention.

14. Broken bones

Remember, it's always best to err on the side of caution. If you're in doubt about the safety or health of your pet, seek help right away.

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

September

Joy's Schedule
Saturday, September 6 from 8 AM - 1 PM - PAWSwalk, Magnuson Park, Seattle, WA. 98.9 KWJZ and Castor & Pollux Pet Works present the 17th Annual PAWSwalk, a fun walk, animal-friendly shopping, free samples, canine agility demos, kids' zone, contests and more! Joy will be there and facillitating mini-sessions for your animal kids. Check-in, activities and vendor booths open at 8am. Walk begins at 10am. All walkers will receive a PAWSwalk 2008 bandana at check-in, and are eligible for additional prizes for reaching fundraising goals. For more information and to register pawswalk.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=264458

Sunday, September 7 starting at 3:30 PM Olympic Bird Fanciers have invited Joy to talk about animal communication at their meeting. After the talk, Joy will be doing mini-sessions for those interested. 5 minutes - $15. The meeting is located at Port Orchard Active Club Community Center, 1025 Tacoma Ave, Port Orchard, WA. To learn more about this fabulous group, please email Sue Marshall at sdmarshall@earthlink.net. The meeting is open to all. Hope to see you there!

Radio Show
Tune in to Talk With Your Animals on Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM Pacific Time either on the radio if you live in the Seattle area or over the Internet by going to www.talkwithyouranimals.com then to the radio show links page and click on the listen live button for KKNW. The show can also be heard live on www.1150kknw.com. The radio show replays on www.animalradio.com. Check that website for the times in your area. If you are interested in calling in to ask a question of your pet on Wednesdays, the telephone number is 425-373-5527. The toll free number if you are in Western Washington is 1-888-298-5569.

Talk With Your Animals is brought to you by Optimum Choices - www.optimumchoices.com, Pet Essences - www.petessences.com, The Natural Pet Pantry - www.naturalpetpantry.com, Natural Horse Talk - www.naturalhorsetalk.com, Dooley's Dog House - www.dooleysdoghouse.com, Nurtural Horse - www.nurturalhorse.com and ScratchnAll - www.scratchnall.com, Waggin' Tails Cookies, Inc. - www.waggintailscookies.com and our mention - Holistic Horse Magazine - www.holistichorse.com. Please let these wonderful people know that Joy sent you.

From The Wonderful Folks Who Support Talk With Your Animals
Tune in on Wednesday to hear how you can receive a goodie for your dog.

Check out Optimum Choices/Bio Preparation's Newsletter, www.optimumchoices.com/newsletters.htm But what if you wanted to introduce someone new to BioSuperfood or you needed a smaller travel-size bottle? Perhaps you haven't tried this revolutionary holistic product yet and you want a smaller introductory price. The manufacturer has just released a smaller 60-capsule bottle of their revolutionary holistic product, BioSuperfood for people. Price for the BioSuperfood-f2 (60-capsules) is only $27.00 while BioSuperfood-f3 (60-capsules) is only $47.00. Now you can give the gift of total wellness at a reasonable price.

Basic Animal Communication Class
The next Basic Animal Communication Class will be held Saturday and Sunday on September 20 & 21 from 12 to 5 PM both days in Yelm, WA. The first day you will learn the theory on how to communicate, find your best way to communicate with animals, and practice with Joy's animal kids. The second day you bring your animal kid to class and practice with yours as well as with other participants' animal kids. To reserve your spot and get directions, please call Martha at 206-850-6485 or e-mail her at Martha@TalkWithYourAnimals.com. To receive the discounted rate of $250, please pay this amount in full before September 6. After September 6, the price is $300. Also, let Martha know if you are interested in carpooling, she will be glad to give you contact information for participants in your area. For those of you wondering when the next basic animal communication class will be held, it is scheduled for September of 2009.

Mentionables
Dog Days of Summer Adoption Event
Sunday, September 7, 2008 from 12 PM to 3 PM - Come meet adoptable dogs and puppies from 9 shelters and rescues. Summer is the perfect time to find your new best friend. All dogs and puppies are spayed/neutered, temperament tested and up to date on shots. Trainers, staff and volunteers will be on hand to help you find the right match for your family. More information at http://www.pawsitivealliance.org/ or call 425-466-4621. Pawsitive Alliance is sponsoring the event at the Academy of Canine Behavior in Bothell which is located at 4705 240th SE, Bothell, WA 98021. Directions can be found at http://aocb.com/directions.htm

My Messy, Smelly, Hairy, Dirty Best Friend Contest We love our pets, despite their messy, smelly, dirty and hairy nature. Eureka® wants to hear about your pet – and how you keep a clean home despite your pal. Submit a cleaning tip and photo of your messy, smelly, dirty, hairy pet to win an innovative, pet-friendly vacuum that fights pet hair and odors along with ARM & HAMMER® Pet FreshTM Fresh-insTM that eliminate odors and add a pleasing scent to any room while you vacuum. To learn more, please visit www.aCleanPetHome.com

HAPPY TAILS LAUNCHES ITS VETERINARIAN DISCOUNT NETWORK Nationwide Veterinarian Discount Network Allows All Pet Owners To Save On Their Pets Veterinarians Fees Regardless Of Age, Medical History, Or Hereditary/Genetic Diseases.
OHIO, September 2, 2008 -- Happy Tails announced today a brand-new program that will improve the quality of life for pets and pet parents throughout the United States. Happy Tails launched its nationwide network which gives pet owners the opportunity to receive a veterinarian discount regardless of their pets’ age, medical history, or hereditary/genetic diseases. Josh Winget, Happy Tails President, said “This network is based on the theory that like humans, pets are created equally too and therefore deserve to receive the same quality care that you and I would receive.”

Much like humans, pets can be allergic to bee stings, swallow foreign objects, and break bones. Your pet can’t sit down and explain where it hurts. The testing can cost you hundreds of dollars, and the last thing you need to worry about is the unexpected expenses.

The Happy Tails Veterinarian Discount Network was created to give all pets the right to be equal. Every pet owner now has the option to step up their pets care a notch without expecting to see a bigger bill. Happy Tails offers all of its members the option to save 25%, 45%, or 65% off of their pets veterinarians fees depending on which membership they choose. The Memberships range from $9.95/Month for a single cat to $79.95/Month for a family with (3) three pets. The members are able to choose any veterinarian throughout the United States. For more information you can visit www.happytailsmembership.com

Contact Info for Joy Turner
If you are interested in having a phone session with Joy, please call 360-894-5000 to set up a time. Most of her clients live all over the world. You don't need to live in her area to have a session with your animals or your Soul/Spiritual Guides/Guardian Angels or those (both human or animal) who have passed over.

Monday, September 01, 2008

An·thro·po·mor·phism

An·thro·po·mor·phism

We’re all Guilty, But Most of Us Don’t Even Know What It Is

By Michael Landa

American pets are getting naughtier by the minute. As the demand for dog behaviorists and for prescription medication to combat “Doggie A.D.D.” and anxiety continue to escalate, we have to wonder who’s to blame for this hazardous trend. To answer the question, we have to first understand the phenomenon behind treating pets as humans.

As the number of kids per household declines, the number of pets is increasing. Baby boomers, a powerful segment of today’s market, are quickly becoming empty-nesters and replacing their grown two-legged children with four-legged ones. Look no further than the proliferation of the term “pet parent” versus “pet owner”. In fact, a full 83% of pet owners now call themselves their pet’s mommy or daddy.

One possible incubator of anthropomorphism leads directly to the burgeoning pet retail industry and the marketers who want your every pet dollar. Now a $43.4 billion annual jackpot for companies – larger than the entire U.S. toy industry – pet care spending has reached unprecedented levels of growth and staying power despite a recent turbulent economy.

“By buying pets human-type gifts, we are making ourselves feel good and making them happy.” says Bob Vetere, chief operating officer of the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. According to marketing strategist Lisa Lehr, this trend suggests a hugely profitable strategy for entrepreneurs in the pet business to position pets as members of the family. “People are eager to spend a lot of money on their pets. You might as well be positioned to receive your share,” states Lehr. The unfortunate consequence, however? A misguided view of canine psychology that’s given rise to undesirable dog behavior in thousands, if not millions, of homes across the country.

Expecting dogs to think like a human is fairly widespread among pet owners. One reason that ancient Fido likely earned the title “Man’s Best Friend” versus other animals was his remarkable ability to adapt his life to fit with ours. It is this very skill set that is likely the cause for our frequently misreading of his intentions and motives.

Dogs ultimately need rules, boundaries and limitations. When dogs live with humans, the humans become the dog’s pack. For this modern relationship to succeed, we must be perceived as the pack’s leader. To a dog, constant affection, gifts and accommodations without rules, boundaries and limitations goes against every grain in a dog’s instinct. In other words, dogs need to be treated like…well, dogs. And, pardon me, for such a politically unpopular statement!

All but the most chronic anthropomorphic dog owners can improve their relationship with their dog and ultimately their behavior if they make a valid effort to understand their dog’s unique emotional makeup. Whereas throwing your dog a birthday party (hey, I’ve done it!) or filling a holiday stocking with treats is not a heinous dog-behavioral crime, people should be wary when their own actions impinge on providing proper timing and fair corrections for their dog.

When a dog is in any other state than being calm and submissive (e.g., if he’s aggressive, obsessive, scared, hyper or anxious) and we give him a hug or pat on the head and tell him it’s OK, it is comforting to us, but it only feeds the state of mind for the dog, making the experience more intense. While we think we’re soothing the dog, the dog sees us as being a weak leader.

Let’s look at an example. Many dogs are naturally afraid of fireworks or thunder. During the experience, the dog is in a weak state of mind. If we step in and comfort the dog in a way we understand (e.g., hugging or baby talk), the dog actually sees us as being weaker than himself at that moment. For your dog to be in a weak state of mind, and then be surrounded by a weaker state of mind, only intensifies his original fear.

Anthropomorphic “parents” often discover that their dog has separation anxiety (sometimes manifested by destructive behavior). In a pack, the leader is allowed to leave, however the followers never leave the leader. If your dog instinctually sees you as the follower and you leave him, the situation causes so much mental anguish that he begins to take it out on your house, or worse, on himself. Owners may want to think twice before buying that $3,000 four poster canopy doggie bed and catering to their dog’s every humanistic desire.

Whether it’s the pet marketers to blame, or the glut of Hollywood films now portraying pets as humans (have you seen Disney’s Beverly Hills Chihuahua?), giving dogs mixed leadership signals throws him off balance, confuses his psyche and ignites a canine imbalance. Whenever we try to evaluate canine behavior using human values we run the risk of misinterpreting our dog’s emotions and motives, while making minor behavioral issues become chronic.

So the next time you want to join the 63% of dog owners who engage in a little kissy kissy with Fido on the bed, let the conventional disciplinarian in you take over and remind yourself that it’s not only OK to treat your dog like a dog, but it’s the BEST way to live in complete harmony with him.



Michael Landa is the Founder and CEO of The Pet Staff (www.ThePetStaff.com), Southern California’s largest and most experienced professional pet sitting, dog walking and dog training company. His staff of 170 pet experts caters to a demanding client base of over 5,700 Angeleno Anthropomorphists. Landa lives in Hollywood with his “baby”, Max, an eighteen-month old Labrador Retriever.

Statistics Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2007-2008 Pet Owners Survey.


Free Web Counter