We all know that health equals wealth, right, and therefore take perfect care of ourselves? Um, well, no. The human capacity for denial is mind-boggling. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do better by our dogs.
They don’t do the grocery shopping, plan the outings, or schedule the vet check-ups, after all. Your dog depends on you to keep her in tip-top shape, and helping you do that is the purpose of this issue.
For starters, check out Dr. Jennifer Taylor’s piece about creating a home health care kit for your canine companions and homeopath Heidi Hill’s article on boosting your dog’s immune system. Both of their businesses received 2009 Beast of the Bay Awards, as did Dr. Jenny as Best Alternative Medical Provider, so listen up! Their advice is golden. Yet another BOTB winner – Best Veterinarian Gary Richter of Montclair Veterinary Hospital – demystifies a common health complaint, canine arthritis.
If you know someone who belongs in this esteemed group, get ready to vote, by mail or online. We’ll be all set to launch the balloting for our second annual Beast of the Bay Awards on October 1.
More on the health front: veterinary ophthalmologist Cynthia Cook’s article about canine cataracts. They crop up often but luckily are pretty simple to diagnose and treat.
You and I may be able to afford regular vet care for our furry best friends, but there are many who cannot. Thank goodness there are organizations dedicated to addressing this problem. The need is great and resources are tight, but volunteer veterinary teams are determined to do what they can.
In San Francisco there is Veterinary Street Outreach Services (VET SOS), which provides free health care to homeless people’s pets. Founder Ilana Strubel discusses the group’s work with homeless youth on page 10. Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) is a nationwide effort spearheaded by The Humane Society of the U.S. Its purpose is to bring free veterinary care to animals in underserved rural communities. Dr. Heidi Strand recently took part in a RAVS effort and chronicles her experiences.
More good stuff: Marthina McClay explains how to become your dog’s fearless leader and Scott Delucchi describes the TAILS program at Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA. The incomparable Ian Dunbar, Lynda Barry, and Herb Canine are all on board, as usual.
Finally, be sure to read the safety tips that can keep your dogs from freaking out when witches prowl on Halloween.
May this issue inspire you to polish up your dog’s health profile, and maybe even your own.
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