pet has been in contact. Conventional treatment options
vary. The irritating toxicity of most antiparasitic medications, such as ivermectin or selamectin-based prod- ucts, makes them effective in destroy- ing mites over several months but also creates problems for the pet if used improperly. Thus, a vet may also prescribe an anti-inflammatory medica- tion; a natural option is plant-derived sterols such as beta-sitosterol, which acts like a cortisone steroid, without the immune-suppressing side effects. Antibiotics also are often prescribed to treat the secondary skin infections and ease itching. Natural antibiotics such as amoxicillin/clavulanate offer a more gentle choice than synthetics. Natural herbal ingredients further
provide a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemicals. Garlic is popular for its natural repellent and antibacte- rial properties. Other natural insecti- cides, including wormwood, neem and lemongrass, help soothe irritated skin. A holistic veterinarian will address the underlying causes of poor health, espe- cially in the case of demodectic mange. Key elements in restoring optimal wellness include proper nutrition via a well-crafted natural diet and immune- boosting probiotics, plus supplements to meet the individual pet’s needs. From a holistic standpoint, bolster- ing the immune system with vitamins (like vitamin C and general skin and immune-supportive pet nutraceuticals) and herbs (such as Astragalus) help. Supplementing the pet’s diet with foods or supplements high in omega-3 and omega-6 also helps; sources of both include salmon and flaxseed. As with other types of parasitic diseases, it is critical that the owner comply with a veterinarian’s treatment instructions. If the pet is prescribed an antiparasitic medication for 90 days, for example, use it for the entire period, regardless of improvements. An incom- plete treatment may interrupt the mite’s life cycle but fail to sufficiently destroy the entire population to prevent re-infes- tation.
Dr. Matthew J. Heller is an integrative veterinarian and owner of All About PetCare, in Middletown, OH.
22 NA Twin Cities Edition
Top Green Choices for What’s Underfoot by Brita Belli
Eco-Friendlier Floors S
tanding in a newly carpeted room, it’s hard to miss the distinctive chemical odors wafting up from the floor. That’s the off-gassing of volatile organic com- pounds (VOCs)—airborne chemicals that can exacerbate asthma symptoms and cause headaches, nausea and eye and throat irritation upon exposure. While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains that proper
ventilation significantly reduces VOC exposure from new carpets after the first 48 to 72 hours, health concerns related to conventional carpets are legitimate, as are its other environmental consequences. According to the EPA, “Over 4 billion pounds of carpet enter the solid waste stream in the United States every year.” Be- cause it’s bulky and comprises multiple materials, discarded carpet is difficult both to dispose of and recycle. Fortunately, there are a host of savvy alternatives that won’t tax the health of
our families or the planet. Here are some of the most popular eco-flooring choices. Hardwood: Woods certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and
available through most major retailers offer an attractive option for most homes. Domestically grown species, including oak, maple and hickory, are the better choices environmentally. However, the FSC also certifies tropical and other forests around the globe (at least 330 million acres in 81 countries), helping to prevent damaging deforestation and counteract illegal logging (
fsc.org). Brad Kahn, the council’s director of communications, notes that people pur-
chasing FSC-certified products have assurance that the product is supporting respon- sible forest management and helping protect forests for future generations. Reclaimed Hardwood: Lumber brimming with character, as well as sterling
environmental credentials is available from companies specializing in reclaimed wood. It may come from sources as diverse as Midwest barns razed for develop- ment to ties from abandoned rail lines in Thailand. Nail holes, scratches, weather- ing and other distinctive markings lend the wood—and our homes—a special dis- tinction. Reclaiming these valuable materials not only diverts them from the waste
natwincities.com
greenliving
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32