Animal Wellness

Book reviews by Kathy Edstrom

Spira, Harold R. Canine Terminology.  Australia: Harper and Rowe (1982)

How many times have you read an article or a book that you're having a difficult time following because of the technical jargon? What about when you've taken your dog to the veterinarian and suddenly you're bombarded with medical jargon that you're assuming relates to your dog's physical well-being? Now you don't have to be left wondering what you missed. This book covers every aspect of canine anatomy along with terms that are used by judges, breeders, exhibitors, veterinarians and animal care givers. The illustrations by Mary and Peggy Davidson add very good visuals to provide clarity to the glossary of terms. This book has a permanent place on my desk.

Pavord, Marcy and Pavord, Tony. The Complete Equine Veterinary Manual. Italy: David & Charles Books (1997)

This book is indispensable. It possesses everything you would be looking for in a horse-care manual. It covers physical signs of health problems in horses, psychological problems, aging, routine health check-ups, when a vet should be called for appropriate care, and it examines every known equine disease in the world. The full color photographs and diagrams help with identifying the problem, and guide the reader to a practical course of action.  Note: This book is currently out of print. You may try Barnes and Noble's on-line bookstore for availability.

Pitcairn, D.V.M., Ph.D., Richard H. and Pitcairn, Susan Hubble. Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, Inc. (1995)

Dr. Pitcairn's book is a comprehensive guide to natural health care for pets. You may find it helpful as a reference for selecting a healthy animal, choosing the right diet for your pet, and for creating a healthy environment for your pet. The two chapters that I found most interesting were chapters ten and fourteen. Chapter ten discusses the emotional connections to your pet's health, and chapter fourteen details several holistic and complementary therapies that are beneficial for pets of all ages and states of illness. Part Two of this book is a "Quick Reference". It's a real bonus because it gives specific instructions for preventing, diagnosing and treating a variety of animal diseases and disorders. Whether you're a pet-lover, animal trainer, or are certified in the animal health care field, you will want this book on your reference shelf.

Shearer, D.V.M., Tamara S. Emergency First Aid for Your Dog. Columbus, OH: Ohio Distinctive Publishing (1996)

Everyone should have some basic first-aid knowledge when owning a pet, or when working with animals in any capacity. This is an excellent resource for locating symptoms, and for getting expert advice on treating the condition. Please note, this book is intended to be used as an aid when immediate veterinary care is not available. It is NOT meant as a substitute for veterinary care. Always contact your veterinarian at the earliest  possible moment, preferably before initiating any nonessential treatment. Note: Contact the publishing house directly about obtaining a copy of this book.

Puotinen, CJ. The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care. Lincolnwood, IL: Keats Publishing (1998)

I often refer to this book in my line of work. This is truly one encyclopedia that every household with animals must have. In one volume, you have everything at your fingertips for advice on pet training, feeding pets a nutritious diet, detailed descriptions of the many holistic modalities that are now available for pets, and an A to Z list of ailments with recommendations on how to treat these ailments using complementary modalities.  Excellent book!

Thompson, Diana. Hands-On Horse Care: An Owner's Guide for Relieving Colic, Illness & Performance Stress. Hands-On Animal Care, 2290 Woolsey Road, Fulton, CA (1991) Video approx. 50 min.

I had the privilege of attending one of Diana Thompson’s 3-day workshops. During this workshop we learned about the benefits of using Bach Flower Remedies with horses, along with getting hands-on experience of learning acupressure for equines, and some helpful massage tips to calm and relax a horse.

In Diana’s video “Hands-On Horse Care”, she demonstrates several touch techniques to ease the cramps of colic, soothe and calm a nervous horse, and to help reduce fatigue and performance stress. You will also learn how to recognize different facial expressions and body postures of a horse that is relaxed, in pain, or is agitated. In addition, Diana covers the importance of studying a horse's vital signs while waiting for emergency assistance.

This video is very informative, and should be viewed by anyone who owns a horse or works with horses on a frequent basis. To order a copy of this VHS tape, visit Diana’s website at www.dianathompson.com

Coates, Margrit. Healing for Horses - The Essential Guide to Using Hands-On Healing Energy with Horses. New York, NY: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. (2002)

This book is a "must have" for every horse owner! Energy medicine is becoming increasingly needed for people and their pets. Coates provides scientific evidence for energy healing and describes numerous case histories of using hands-on healing energy with horses.

In the latter section of the book, the author explains how to give a healing treatment to a horse. She also gives recommendations for uses of hands-on healing and what to look for in the horse while giving a healing treatment.

Ms. Coates' book is essential for anyone who would like to offer energetic bodywork to their equine friend but doesn't have an energy practitioner in their area. A step-by-step guide walks you through a healing session.

This is without a doubt the best book I've read on energy healing for horses! I give it two paws up!

Hermsen, Josee. The Horse Encyclopedia. Buffalo, NY: Firefly Books (U.S.) Inc. (1997)

This is an essential guide for anyone interested in horses and riding. The author explains in a very user-friendly format, common equestrian terms and concepts, breeds of horses (which are quite helpful if you are researching the breed of horse you'd like to own), characteristics of the horse, how to care for a horse, and descriptions of riding styles, and equestrian sports. This is a fully illustrated book with over a thousand beautiful photographs of horses in all their grandeur.

Stein, Diane. Natural Healing for Dogs & Cats. Freedom, CA: The Crossing Press (1993)

I found Diane Stein's book very helpful. She has brought together naturopathic techniques from many leading specialists in the field. Stein discusses and illustrates acupressure, herbs, homeopathy, massage and flower essence therapy in an easy-to-understand format. Stein utilizes ancient healing disciplines, and has proven them to be effective, safe and non-invasive. This is a very good book.

Stein, Diane. The Natural Remedy Book for Dogs & Cats. Freedom, CA: The Crossing Press (1994)

I tend to utilize this book more  than Stein's Natural Healing for Dogs & Cats. Not only does this book include descriptions of  nine holistic approaches to healing , but Stein also includes an extensive section covering remedies for ailments from abscesses and digestive problems, to liver disease and vaccinations. Each topic is written with much care for both animal and pet owner. It's rich with information and the methods are positive, natural ways to keep cats and dogs healthy.

Pet Music. Ambler, PA: Incentive Media, LLC (1999)

It is becoming more popular with kennels, doggy day care centers, and households to play music for pets while their people are away. According to the ASPCA, music helps reduce pets' stress and separation anxiety.

In this three volumn collection, there are over three hours of music. The three CD's include "Natural Rhythms", "Peaceful Playground" and "Sunday in the Park". This is actual music and not three hours of sound effects. I don't know how soothing it is to my dogs' ears, but I found all three CD's quite pleasing to my own. Not only will I be playing these CD's while I'm working with my animal clients, but I'll also be playing them for my human clients as well.

If you're looking for soothing, instrumental music, consider adding "Pet Music" to your collection. 4% of the proceeds from the net sales of this product support the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and its animal welfare programs.

Foster, D.V.M., Race and Smith, D.V.M., Marty. What's the Diagnosis? Understanding Your Dog's Health Problems. New York, NY: Howell Book House (1995)

This is a complete, easy-to-understand guide for dog owners. It is written in plain English. The authors leave out the technical jargon, and write the questions and answers to the most commonly asked canine health care questions, in a very conversational format. This is a must have book for every dog owner.

I will be adding books to this list on a frequent basis. I encourage you to browse Amazon.com for thousands of additional titles. If you click this link, Amazon will know that Paws-A-Tive Choice sent you.