Clean cloths.


For bee stings or insect bites on the body, cool com- presses can reduce swell- ing and itching. Wet a washcloth with cold water or for larger welts, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply for a few minutes at a time. For stings on the face or mouth, it’s best to go to the vet’s office immedi- ately, so that airways don’t swell up and hinder breathing.


Miscellaneous supplies. Keep on hand gauze, tape, small scissors, tweezers (for removing objects from the roof of the mouth or splinters), a small flashlight, clean socks to cover a bandage and disposable gloves to keep human germs out of open wounds. A dog in pain may bite without realizing it. Nicholas recommends a basket muzzle, so the dog can easily breathe and pant. When a pet eats or drinks non-food items or foods they shouldn’t, such as chocolate, grapes or onions, head to the local vet. Veterinarian Jeff Levy, in New York City, who is also a certified veteri- nary acupuncturist, counsels, “Always keep contact information for your vet, an emergency hospital and animal poison control center handy.” Also, find out where emergency services are located when traveling. Pets can go into shock just like hu-


mans. To prevent or reduce the impact, keep the animal warm and provide a deep massage of the ears, at the base, where ears meet the head. A couple of drops of lavender oil on a collar or bandana will help everyone relax. Do not put essential oils directly on the pet, especially cats, as it can be toxic. Just like children, pets may have accidents or get sick after office hours. Stay calm, head for the natural pet pantry and then call the family’s holistic veterinarian.


Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLSandyM@ yahoo.com.


First-Aid Acupressure Points for Pets


by Ann Kerr Romberg P


et owners should know that there are several simple animal acupressure points that calm and relieve pain and that anyone can perform. This article describes how to find these points and how to apply pressure to provide relief.


Remember, acupressure is not an alternative to proper medical care. If your pet is ill or injured, call a veterinarian immediately.


Wikipedia defines acupressure as “an alternative medicine technique similar in principle to acupuncture. It is based on the concept of life energy which flows through ‘meridians’ in the body. In treatment, physical pressure is applied to trigger points with the aim of clearing blockages in these meridians.” To apply pressure to an acupressure point, use your thumb or middle finger and apply gentle pressure, about what you would apply comfortably to your own eyelid. Hold or gently massage the point until the animal no longer wants it or you see the symptoms decrease. Do not force the animal. Offer the pressure gently and let the animal “tell” you what it wants.


To Calm, Decrease Fear and Relieve Pain: Kidney 27


On a dog or cat, Kidney 27 is located between the breast bone and the first rib on the chest.


To Relieve Pain: Bladder 60 On a dog or cat, Bladder 60 is located on the outside of the hind leg, just above the ankle joint and on the back of the bone.


To Reduce Vomiting: Conception Vessel Meridian


Gently stroke from the bottom on the lower lip down the throat and stomach (front to back). Vomiting is caused by the chi, or energy, moving in the wrong direction. Stroking will start the chi moving in the proper direction.


For more information, check out the Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute (AnimalAcupressure.com) or visit a local animal acupressure specialist.


Ann Kerr Romberg provides animal acupressure, Reiki and other modalities to keep pets healthy and happy. She is located in the Twin Cities area. For more information, visit EnergyHealingForYourPet.com. See ad, page 24.


Kidney 27 Bladder 60 natural awakenings December 2013 25


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