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October 2013


HELPING YOUR DOG
FETCH
MORE OUT OF LIFE.
  
CRCG News
Ah, it's finally fall, that most fleeting of seasons.  Our attentions move from outdoor to indoor pursuits.  The days get shorter, the light changes, leaves fall, and we settle in for the holidays and colder weather.  
 
We'd like to take the opportunity to thank all of you for your support and patience as we've worked to get our Longmont location up and running after the floods in September.  It has been a trying time for us as a business, but we are thankful that we weren't hit as hard as we could have been.  We also had clients and staff impacted by the disaster, so its effects run deep and will be felt for some time.  We Colorado folk are resilient, though!  We will carry on but we won't forget. 
 
CRCG Referral Program - Get credit for telling someone about us
And just a reminder that if you refer a friend to CRCG, you'll receive a $10 credit to your account!  Make sure your friend gives us your name on the intake form so we can apply the credit.  Refer often and reap the benefits.  Client referrals are the highest form of praise and we don't take them lightly. 
Attention puppies! Seth Casteel is coming back to town!
 

One day only!  Thursday, October 24

 

Seth must really like us, as he's coming back to town for ONE day to capture Colorado's cutest water-loving puppies!

 

There is NO cost for this event, but puppy parents will have the option of purchasing prints if photos are taken.

 

CRITERIA:

Puppies of all breeds and mixed breeds age 8-16 weeks in good health

Must show a great confidence in the world  (no shy or anxious puppies, please)

No Swimming Experience Required

 

*If your puppy has previous swimming experience and has already SUBMERGED his or her face for a sinking toy, please let us know. This is fantastic news and we will definitely want to work with your puppy! 

 

Interested?  Please RSVP to info@dog-swim.com.  We will contact you to answer any questions and get you scheduled. 

 
        
Save the Date
Pictures with Santa on Sunday, November 3 at CRCG Broomfield!

David McNew/Getty Images
Stay tuned, details to follow!
Treating Canine Osteoarthritis (OA) 

 

Excerpted from an article in Integrative Veterinary Care Journal Issue V3I4
By: Sherman O. Canapp Jr., DVM, MS, CCRT, and Lisa M. Fair, VT, CCRA, CMT

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease in dogs. It is reported that one in every five dogs greater than a year old is affected. Incidents increase as dogs age with one in every two dogs ten years or older affected.

 

Multiple etiologies are suspected to contribute to the formation of OA, including congenital and developmental abnormalities, joint instability, joint trauma, defective articular cartilage structure and biosynthesis, and inflammatory conditions. In our experience, congenital and developmental abnormalities and joint instability are the leading cause of OA.

 

Early intervention offers the best prognosis for minimizing OA. Early intervention includes screening for developmental orthopedic diseases, especially in breeds with known risk, and thorough investigation of seemingly indistinct clinical signs in young dogs. Too often presenting complaints such as slow moving, clumsy gait, less playful or lazy and even intermittent lameness are attributed to "growing pains" when in reality these are often early signs of underlying joint disease. This is the most often missed opportunity for early identification and treatment of joint diseases that could have a profound impact on the dog's longevity and quality of life.

 

In some cases an orthopedic examination and radiographs can provide diagnosis (i.e. hip dysplasia), however more advanced diagnostics such as CT, MRI or arthroscopy may be needed (i.e fragmented coronoid processes (FCP) of the elbow may not be evident on routine radiographs). Depending on findings, surgical intervention may be warranted. Early intervention is also imperative for traumatic injuries including those that leave joints unstable. This can include cruciate ligament insufficiency, traumatic FCP, medial shoulder syndrome/instability (MSS/MSI) and carpal and tarsal sprain/ strain injuries. Although these injures can occur acutely, joint instability can also result from repetitive activities and these types of injuries are common in sporting and working dogs. Early and appropriate management of these injuries can greatly reduce development and advancement of OA.

Regardless of whether surgical or conservative management is pursued, a complete management program should be multifaceted. 

 

Components of a comprehensive program may include: * Diet, nutrition and supplements * Weight management and exercise * Assistive devices * Acupuncture and physical manipulation (chiropractic) * Regenerative medicine therapy * Rehabilitation therapy * NSAIDs and adjunct medications * Disease modifying agents and corticosteriods

 

The role of diet and supplements

 

Diet and nutrition have significant impact on health and disease. Nutrition has been shown to play a role in developmental skeletal disease. An excess of specific nutrients can exacerbate musculoskeletal disorders, and fast-growing, large breed puppies are at particular risk. For these dogs, controlled growth, optimum levels of calcium and phosphorus and essential fatty acids as well as specific natural ingredients to enhance development are all essential elements to reduce the risk of developmental skeletal disease. In all dogs, providing proper nutrition during growth and maintaining a healthy weight throughout life can help minimize the development of OA.

 

Beyond providing age-appropriate nutrition, diets that include or are supplemented with certain nutritional factors may reduce inflammation, slow degradation, enhance cartilage repair and provide relief from the associated discomfort.

 

* Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids. Two components of Omega 3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, better known as EPA and DHA, found in cold water fi sh have been shown to reduce inflammation and reduce pain associated with OA. EPA specifically has been shown to suppress the degradative enzymens associated with cartilage destruction.

* Glucosamine is a precursor for glycosaminoglycans (GAGS), which are a primary component of joint cartilage. Supplemental glucosamine may influence cartilage structure and restore synovial fluid. GAGs may also aid in the prevention of OA.

* Chondrotin sulfate is an important structural component of cartilage and provides resistance of cartilage to compression. Supplemental chondrotin sulfate may reduce inflammation, stimulate synthesis of proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid as well as decrease catabolic activity.

* ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables) has been demonstrated to help protect cartilage from degradation. Studies have shown a synergy when glucosamine hydrochloride, chondrotin sulfate and AUS are combined. Together they provide improved inhibition in expression of agents involved in cartilage breakdown.

* MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is an organosulfur compound and although the biochemical effects of supplemental MSM are poorly understood, some research has suggested that MSM has anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests there may be increased benefit when it is combined with glucosamine and chondrotin.

* SAM-e (S-Adenosyl methionine) is naturally made by the body and plays an important role in normal bodily functions. Often used as a supplement for liver support, studies have demonstrated that supplemental SAM-e can also reduce discomfort associated with OA. Some studies even found SAM-e to be as effective for relieving pain as NSAIDs.

* Vitamin E is the primary lipid-soluble antioxidant present in plasma, erythrocytes and tissues. Oxidative damage to essential cell components caused by oxygen free radicals is a mechanism in the pathobiology of degenerative joint disease. Vitamin E inhibits lipid oxidation. Research indicates that levels of Vitamin E must be higher than minimal requirements to achieve biologic benefits. Further, supplementation with Vitamin E is needed when supplementing with fatty acids as these fatty acids can deplete Vitamin E in the body.

* Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient well known for its antioxidant activity. Although dogs can synthesize enough vitamin C to meet minimal requirements, supplementation may improve antioxidant performance. However, it is important to note that vitamin C supplementation can contribute to calcium oxalate crystal formation in susceptible dogs. In addition, over supplementation can cause loose stools.

* DLPA (DL-phenylalanine) is a natural amino acid used to treat chronic pain. DLPA inhibits several enzymes that are responsible for the destruction of endorphins. Endorphins are pain-killing hormones and by inhibiting their destruction, pain relief is prolonged. It can also potentiate opiate analgesia and prolong the effects of acupuncture. DLPA can be used as an alternative to NSAIDs. DLPA cannot be used with any MAOI drugs such as Anipryl (used for treatment of Pituitary-Dependent Hyperadrenocorticism (PDH)/Cushing's Disease and Canine Cognitive Dysfunction) or Amitraz (used in tick collars).

* Traumeel is a homeopathic formulation of 12 botanical substances and one mineral substance. It has been diluted beyond the molecular level, probably with nonoparticle effects as the MOA. It is purported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous and anti-exudative properties. Although the exact mechanism of action is not well understood, it appears to be the result of modulation of the release of oxygen radicals from activated neutrophils, and inhibition of the release of inflammatory mediators (possibly interleukin-1 from activated macrophages) and neuropeptides (2). Traumeel is often used as an alternative to NSAIDs.

* GLM (Green-Lipped Mussels) has been shown to contain anti-inflammatory components and other nutrients that may benefit joint health. Exact mechanisms of action are unknown, however, clinical studies of GLM powder added to diets either by way of incorporating into food using low-temperature processing (heat processing of GLM has been shown to destroy its activity) or sprinkling on top of food showed GLM to be effective in reducing symptoms.

* Herbs - There are several herbs that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as well as various herbal formulations purported to aid dogs suffering with OA. Commonly used herbs include: * Boswellia * Yucca root * Turmeric * Hawthorn * Nettle leaf * Licorice * Meadowsweet * Willow bark

It is important to note that herbs can have side effects as with any drug. In addition, herbs may have interactions with other herbs, supplements and medications. Consultation with a qualified botanical medicine professional can be beneficial in determining which herbs and at what doses those herbs can offer benefit to your pet.

 

When considering supplementation, it is important to consider the whole dog and any concurrent diseases or conditions. Many dogs being treated for OA are geriatric and may have impaired organ function. Prior to adding any supplementation, especially in the geriatric dog, a physical examination, baseline urinalysis, complete blood count and blood chemistry is recommended. Research potential contraindications, drug interactions and appropriate dosing of any supplement considered prior to administration. Many dog foods formulated specifically for OA contain several of these supplements; therefore additional supplementation may require dosing adjustments.

 

Weight management and exercise

 

Obesity is a known risk factor for OA in dogs. Owners must be educated on the importance of maintaining their dogs at a healthy weight and each visit should include evaluation of weight and body condition score (BCS). Dogs with excess weight should be placed on a diet management program, which may include food restriction, change in diet, exercise and behavior modification. As discussed above, many owners give treats without thought to caloric implications. Compliance to weight management programs is often a challenge so be sure to discuss and include treats when formulating weight management programs. Weight management alone may result in significant clinical improvement.

 

Light to moderate low impact exercise is recommended to reduce stiffness and maintain joint mobility. Specific exercise requirements can vary based on the individual dog, however short walks (15 to 20 minutes) performed two to three times daily are typically recommended. Swimming is an excellent low impact activity that can improve muscle mass and joint range of motion. The most critical aspect is consistency. Exercise should be performed on a routine basis and excessive and/or high impact exercise should be avoided.

 

Assistive devices

 

These provide assistance with mobility for walking, rising and maneuvering. Booties can provide traction for slippery surfaces. Orthotics can provide support to joints which can also improve comfort. Slings and harnesses can be used to assist pets when rising, walking, performing stairs and during eliminations. Carts can provide independent mobility for dogs that have difficulty walking.

 

Canine osteoarthritis is an incurable condition, however, with early intervention, when possible, and a multimodal approach we can extend the longevity and quality of life for our canine companions.

October Specials
 
Flood Relief

$1 for every recreational swim donated to LHS
CRCG Donation to 
Longmont Humane Society

CRCG will donate $1 for every recreational swim in October to Longmont Humane Society.
Offer Expires 11.15 2013 
Is your pup slowing down?

Be proactive - The above article has some great insight.
20% off Geriatric Evaluation

You will receive a thorough evaluation which will be used to create a plan for treatment, home instruction and a treatment.

($30 value)
Offer Expires 11.15 2013 
K9 CPR and First Aid Class

Sunday, October 27 - 1-5 p.m. @ CRCG Broomfield

100% of the class proceeds will be donated to the Doggie Depot.

Doggie Depot has been an established dog daycare training business for over 10 years. Jonathan and Cailey are unique owners who utilize their true love for animals as a guiding principal for conducting their business. Doggie depot was significantly impacted with water damage inside and several feet of mud and debris in the outside dog play yards and the driveway to the business. In addition they lost their home, contents, personal belongings. They had no flood insurance for the business or for their home.   

 

The K9 First Aid and CPR course is designed to give the pet lover, dog sport enthusiast, or pet professional the necessary information and skills to stabilize an injured animal until qualified veterinarian care is accessed. Whether you are new to dog ownership, or a long time friend; have a puppy, or care for a senior dog; own a purebred or a mixed breed from the shelter; regardless of your situation, your dog is precious to you. You only want the best for your dog, just like you want the best for every member of your family. This Paramedic based material gives the students confidence. Confidence that no matter what the situation involving their dog, they will be able to provide care that will help for the best possible outcome. That alone can be priceless.

 

 We use actual Canine CPR manikins where people actually preform "mouth to snout" breathing and compressions. The class content covers over 20 First Aid items including: first aid kits, torn pads, dog fights, seizures, broken bones, electrical injuries, muzzling, and bleeding control and appropriate restraining of an injured animal. There is special attention to choking, bloat, and poisons. There are several hands on type skills and the relaxed open format is very conducive for learning. Since the material is paramedic based you can even use your new found skills on human's (if you want to) that is. During class each person gets a class participation packet, and has the option of purchasing a pet first aid certificate for an additional $5.   The card is valid for life, and with the card, students may take the class at no charge anytime in the future.

Please no dogs to this event.

You may pay at time of registration or you may bring check of cash the day of the class.

 

 

 

HELPING YOUR DOG FETCH MORE OUT OF LIFE.

Contact:
CRCG
Englewood | Broomfield | Longmont
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