plus treating all animals with which the 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 dis- eases, it is critical that the owner comply with a veterinarian’s treatment instruc- tions. If the pet is prescribed an antipara- sitic medication for 90 days, for example, use it for the entire period, regardless of improvements. An incomplete treatment may interrupt the mite’s life cycle but fail to sufficiently destroy the entire popula- tion to prevent re-infestation.
Dr. Matthew J. Heller is an integrative veterinarian and owner of All About PetCare, in Middletown, OH.
and pet care for Southwest Florida with dedication and attention to detail
239-465-6295 •
lovetslovincare@aol.com Melanie Lovett - Owner natural awakenings October 2012 47
Providing home
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 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64