Plants & Pets

Preventing bad breath in dogs
Your pet comes to lick your cheek when you return home after a day’s hectic work, and you happily bend down to oblige. But, the very next moment, you straighten up with a ‘yelp’—your pet dog’s breath smells like rotten eggs! Bad breath—or halitosis— is the outcome of a buildup of smell producing bacteria in the dog’s mouth, lungs or gut. Constant bad breath can be a sign that your dog needs some dental care or suffers from poor digestion. Thus, it is always advisable to pay heed to the problem and avoid unwanted medical problems later on.
Some causes of bad breath in dogs
Eating canned dog foods, food high in fish oils, food that is too hard to digest, and sneaking from other pet’s food bowl are the common causes of bad breath in dogs;
If any food or hair particle gets stuck in your dog’s teeth;
Teething is the most common reason for having bad breath in puppies and dogs in which the bacteria get deposited in the gum line;
Periodontal disease (a painful dental or gum disease) that may lead to loss of the tooth; It also damages the organs like kidneys, liver, and heart. In this condition, the plaque gets matured and cause irritating gingivitis;
Gastrointestinal diseases (in stomach, liver, esophagus or intestine);
Oral diseases like stomatitis (painful inflammation of the gums) and oral masses (Cancerous growth) and gingival hyperplasia in which gums are overgrown;
Metabolic disease (in kidneys) causes sour smelling breath, which occurs by the abnormal presence of some toxins in the blood; and
Diabetes (a sign where bad breath can smell sweet or fruity)
The most important thing to do is to consult a vet. But if everything is fine health-wise, there are certain home remedies that can help rid your dog of stint.
Some natural remedies to help to fight bad breath
1. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that help in reducing the stinky smell from your dog’s mouth. Apart from combating the bad breath, coconut oil has many other uses. It is good for your dog digestive, immune, and metabolic system. Coconut oil consists of antiviral properties, which help in preventing and treating yeast infections. Also, it is good for your dog’s skin, bones, and brain. Take 1 tsp of coconut oil and mix it in your dog’s food or you can simply cook your dog’s food in coconut oil. Coconut oil is also used for brushing your dog’s teeth. This oil is sweet in taste and dogs to love it. So try giving 1 tsp of coconut oil to your dog every day to keep the stinking smell at bay. Make the habit of using coconut oil in your dog’s food and you will notice a pleasant change in your dog’s breath.
2. Lemon: Lemon has a strong and nice smell. It contains a citrus property that stops bacteria from growing inside your dog’s mouth, thus prevents bad breath. It is a simple remedy for bad breath, yet very effective. Just add a few drops of lemon juice to your dog’s drinking water or whenever you fill or change your dog’s water, squeeze a lemon into it. Lemon act as a natural bleach that will help to clean your dog’s mouth thus provides a fresh smell to the mouth.
3. Carrot: Carrot contains beta-carotene which is one of the powerful natural antioxidants. It helps in protecting the body from the dangerous free radical injury. It is a rich source of vitamins and plays a major role in maintaining good health. Plaque is one of the common causes of bad breath. Carrot is known for removing the plaque because of its abrasive quality. So, it is important to feed carrots to your dogs to get rid of bad breath. Cut 1-2 carrots into medium size pieces and give it to your dog in between the meals or after the food. Chewing the carrots stimulates the saliva, which in turn cleanses away all the food particles from the mouth and in between the teeth. By adding carrots to your dog’s daily diet, you will soon find relief from dog bad breath.
4. Brown Rice: Brown rice is high in fiber, which is good for digestion. It is also loaded with powerful antioxidants, which prevent many diseases like cancer, diabetes etc. Digestion plays a vital role in a dog’s breath. Instead of white rice, give your dog a bowl of brown rice1-2 times a day. By adding some cooked brown rice to your dog’s daily diet will help in preventing bad breath, which is caused by indigestion or other gastrointestinal diseases.
5. Parsley: Parsley is mostly used to control bad breath. The chlorophyll present in this green plant helps in neutralizing the odor. Take a bunch of parsley leaves, and add this to 500 ml of boiling water. Steep it for 10-15 minutes, and then drain the leaves. Let it cool for some time. Now, you can give this to your pet to drink. Most probably, your dog will not like the taste, and will spew out. So, you can take a spray bottle and fill it with parsley water and spray it into your dog’s mouth. Another method is: Take a few fresh parsley leaves and finely chop it. Then add it to your dog’s favorite food. Give your dog some parsley leaves to chew, which will help give a fresh smell to your dog’s mouth, and thus will reduce the bad odor.
6. Yogurt: Yogurt acts as an antidote for bad breath. Researchers have found that taking yogurt at least twice a day will help to reduce hydrogen sulfide, which is a compound that causes bad breath. It has also been found that yogurt is a rich source of calcium, which benefits the oral health.  Yogurt can be mixed with brown rice, or you can simply give plain yogurt in the morning and night.
    Including yogurt in your dog’s daily diet can have many advantages besides controlling bad breath.
7. Brushing: Oral hygiene is also required for animals as well. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly will give a fresh smell, and also help to get rid of the cavities. But never use human toothpaste or baking soda to brush your dog’s teeth as the toothpaste contains some detergents, which are harmful to your dog if swallowed. Also, baking soda contains a lot of sodium, which can make them sick.
8. Chew Treats: There are varieties of chew treats available in the pet shop, which you can give to your dog. Remember to choose the right one for your dog, depending on their size, as small chew treats given to big dogs will not work as they can swallow it, which can cause choking. Older dogs should be given soft chews, as their teeth’s will not be very strong.
Beside the above-mentioned tips, you can give plenty of water to your dog to drink daily as it will keep their mouth moist and keep the bacteria causing bad breath at bay. Ensure that your dog’s food and water bowl is cleaned properly as unclean vessels provide bacteria to grow, one of the main causes of bad breath. Take your dog for a routine check up to the vet at least 1-2 times in a year to detect if there is any problem. 

May 2017
If you have pets, choose plants with care
Toxic plants can be a hazard to children and pets, as well as to elderly persons with dementia. Whereas it is advisable to keep all plants out of the reach of those who might crush, eat, or taste them, it is not always possible to prevent accidental encounters. Poisoning can occur from eating or touching leaves; ingesting berries, blossoms, or roots; skin contact with sap or juices; eating soil or drinking water from plant tray. Most nurseries do not provide warning labels on the plants they sell. A plant that isn't necessarily dangerous to eat might still cause a skin reaction in a child or pet with a sensitivity. However, the health benefits of having plants far outweighs the risks, as long as you choose your plants with care and establish a few household rules regarding the foliage. Plants can purify the air; provide oxygen and enhance your décor. If you have toxic plants, consider a "plant swap" with a friend who may have pet or child-safe plants, but who has no pets or children. This is much kinder than simply throwing plants out in the trash to die, and you and your friends will all have the chance to experiment with new plants.
Non-Toxic/Safe House Plants
Christmas cactus: Perhaps the safest of all houseplants, the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) has a scary name, but poses no threat. Not only is it non-toxic, the fronds have no stickers. Like many other succulents, the Christmas cactus can be easily propagated from a stem cutting. They bloom November through January and can be moved to a semi-shady location during the summer. But, they are not as heat and drought tolerant as other cacti.
Boston fern: This fern is a favorite with cats, who love to nibble and play with the long fronds. Boston ferns are non-toxic to both cats and dogs and humans as well. Boston ferns prefer a humid environment, and non-direct sunlight.
Spider Plant: This plant (also known as airplane plant) is great for many reasons. It produces beautiful, grass-like leaves that can range from pale to emerald green. It also puts out "vines" or "legs", making it a lovely selection for a hanging basket. The vines will begin to grow baby spider plants that can easily be transplanted. The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is one of the top recommendations for all homes. It is an excellent choice for air purification. It is also easy to grow, even in low light conditions.  It is also safe for children and all pets.
Jade Plant: The jade plant is a thick, meaty succulent with beautiful glossy leaves. It is evergreen, which makes it pleasant as a year-round houseplant. Jade plants can be easily propagated by places a trimmed stem in water until roots form. This makes it easy to extend your plant collection. It is safe for humans and pets.
Miniature Rose: Probably the trickiest plant to grow indoors, the miniature rose is definitely worth the trouble. This plant is safe for children and pets, and the miniature varieties are thornless.
Wandering Jew: This plant probably requires the least amount of care. This plant will vine uncontrollably if left untrimmed. Be careful where you toss those plant cuttings too. Wandering Jew will take root wherever it falls, be that in another pot, a glass of water, or in your lawn, it can quickly become invasive too. For those with pets and children, Wandering Jew is an ideal alternative to the toxic pothos ivy.
Here are some herbs, flowers, and other outdoor plants that make safe, attractive house plants: Catnip, Basil, Cilantro, Rosemary, Parsley and Lemon Balm.
Toxic/Poisonous Houseplants
Philodendron:  Quite possibly one of the most popular house plants, the lovely philodendron is easy to grow. While it is often the perfect complement to any room, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans and animals. The philodendron may be vining or non-vining. It is very important to keep vining plants well out of reach of children or pets and to keep tendrils and leaves trimmed. Non-vining plants should be kept on high window sills or shelves. Philodendron has a serious effect on pets, with reports of spasms, seizures, pain, and swelling. It seems to be more toxic to cats.
Pothos:  Pothos Ivy, also called Devil's Ivy, is recommended for its beautiful variegated leaves, forgiving nature, and air purification abilities. In fact, it is cited as one of the best plants for removing impurities from the air. It is also easy to propagate from cuttings. Because of this, many people receive these as starter plants or housewarming gifts. Pothos is considered to be only mildly harmful in small quantities, but can produce uncomfortable and sometimes serious side effects in human and animals like drooling, choking, swelling of mouth and tongue, difficulty breathing, and stomach upset.
Arrowhead Plant: This plant is related to the philodendron and is also easy to care for. It is toxic to both humans and animals, and symptoms may include irritated skin, stomach upset, vomiting.
Lily:  Few flowers are as beautiful as lilies. Not all lilies are toxic, and some are more toxic to animals, especially cats, than to humans. If you are aren't certain what type of lily you have, err on the side of caution and keep lilies either out of reach indoors, or planted away from play areas outdoors. The more toxic varieties include: Calla Lily (which can be fatal to children), Easter Lily, Rubrum Lily, Tiger Lily, Day Lily and Asian Lily. Different lilies will produce different symptoms in pets or humans. Cats are more susceptible to lily poisoning than dogs.
Peace Lily: Although peace lilies are not true lilies, they are still toxic to humans and pets, but also excellent air purifiers.
Dieffenbachia:  The Dieffenbachia is also called dumb cane. Dieffenbachia has thick stems and fleshy leaves that are usually solid green, with the occasional yellow or green markings. Dumb cane is more likely to be ingested since the large plants are usually kept in pots on the floor or low pedestals. Unlike philodendron, dieffenbachia ingestion usually produces only mild to moderate symptoms in both humans and pets.
Oleander: Oleander is one of the deadliest ornamentals. Nerium oleander looks delicate and innocent, but is so toxic that even ingesting honey made from its nectar can produce symptoms. Deaths in adult humans have been reported with as little as one leaf eaten, but the majority of deaths occur when very large amounts are ingested. Children are more susceptible and should be kept away from Oleander plants. In cats and dogs, it produces symptoms like arrhythmia, vomiting, and cold extremities.
Caladium: The beautiful, decorative caladium is toxic to both humans and animals. Caladiums are bulb plants with long-lasting foliage. They are popular as houseplants or for outside landscaping. They are also commonly known as ‘elephant's ears’ and ‘angel's wings’. All parts of the caldadium are considered toxic to humans and animals.
Snake Plant: Another great floor plant, the mother-in-law's tongue, or snake plant, has leathery, sword-like leaves that earned the plant its sharp name. Due to the belief that it can protect a home from evil influences, the mother-in-law's tongue is also called a good-luck plant, but it might not be so lucky for pets. For humans, the toxicity level is low, producing short-lasting symptoms such as mouth pain, salivation, and some nausea. But in cats and dogs, it can cause excessive salivation, pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Coleus: Coleus is only safe for humans. It is toxic to dogs and cats. These plants can be grown from seeds, or they can be propagated from a plant owned by a friend. If someone has extra seedlings, they can be transplanted to a pot and moved indoors. If you don't want more coleus, be sure to pinch off the flowers before they go to seed, as one plant can parent hundreds of babies.
Remember that gardening supplies can be dangerous too. Keep tools and chemicals locked away. Use red pepper around plants to deter curious pets.

March-April  2017
Indoor plants keep you fresh & cool
The modern-day air-tight constructions may keep away the noise pollution and heat to some extent, but they considerably bring down the freshness of the indoor environment through reduced air exchange or ventilation. Then, the heat of summers makes it worse. Add to that the challenge of humidity, which is another important factor that can impact health. Low humidity levels can increase susceptibility to infections like viral fevers while higher than optimum levels have other side effects.  A natural way to enhance the quality of air and keep our homes cooler in summers is to go for indoor plants. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen. A lot of potted plants are known to remove harmful toxins from air and bring down ambient temperatures, while also adding to the decor of the house. Plants tend to control humidity to within the optimum range for human health as well. Some plants that are ideal for these purposes are:
Areca Palm: One of the great living room plants is the Areca Palm Tree. With high air purifying properties, Acrea Palm removes carbon dioxide and toxins from the air. Consistently rated among the best houseplants for improving the ambient environment, Areca Palm is also an excellent air humidifier. While selecting an Areca Palm, go for a plant with a thicker trunk at the base. Plants with trunk diameter under an inch prove to be tricky to maintain.
Snake Plant: Snake plant or Mother-in-law's Tongue is a perfect bedroom plant. Although most plants are known to take away oxygen at night, Snake plant does just the opposite. It emits oxygen at night while you sleep which also keeps the temperature of your indoors at a cooler levels in the night time. Not just that, the plant is known to absorb toxins such as nitrogen oxides, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, toluene and benzene. Easy to take care of, Snake plant is good at managing with low light levels and irregular watering, with even less water requirements during the winter. Experts suggest that about 6 to 8 waist-high plants are needed to get the optimal oxygen output for a person.
Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and medicinal properties, Aloe Vera is often used for treating burns on the skin. But very few people are aware of the fact that Aloe Vera also brings down ambient temperatures, making for good protection from high heats. Not just that, the plant is also found to be effective in removing formaldahyde from the air and improving indoor air quality. Plant Aloe Vera in well-drained soil and allow for some drying time in between watering.
Baby Rubber Plant: This house plant cleans up the indoor air by releasing high levels of oxygen and removing toxic chemicals such as formaldahyde. Plant the Baby Rubber in rich soil and take care to keep it in filtered light. The plant will survive infrequent watering.
Weeping Fig or Ficus Tree: The Weeping Fig will clean up your indoor air by removing widespread airborne toxins and by increasing oxygen levels. The plant prefers bright light and sun but is also tolerant towards poor light, with low to moderate water requirements.
Boston fern: One of the most decorative interior plants, the Boston fern is a natural humidifier and air purifier that cleanses the indoor air of formaldahyde and other toxins. Some call it the best of the lot in purifying air. The plant flourishes in bright light and damp soil but can also tolerate poor light and drought.
Golden Pothos: Also known as Devil's ivy or Silver Vine, the Golden Pothos can readily outgrow its original allotted space with its evergreen leaves and multiplying stems. And yet, it is often cited as among the best house plants for improving indoor air quality. When it comes to removing indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene and carbon monoxide, the Golden Pothos may win hands down. Another advantage is that it doesn't need too much watering, especially in colder temperatures and in partial sun.
Other Benefits of Indoor Plants
Apart from cooling down your house temperatures and improving the indoor air quality, interior plants are also known to have the following beneficial effects:
- Increased positivity and reduced levels of worry, stress and depression - Breathing in improved and healthier air has an impact on our overall feeling of well-being.
- Better concentration levels leading to improved productivity - a peaceful and energetic mind makes for higher concentration levels and better performance at work and at home
- Faster recovery from physical ailments and mental tiredness - cleaner indoor air quality is known to speed up recovery from diseases and exhaustion.
Interiors feel spacious, looked-after and clean - well-cared-for plants add to the beauty of your home interiors.
- Lead to better usage of space inside the house - there are studies to show that people prefer to occupy rooms with potted plants. Therefore keeping plants in various parts of the house increases the possibility of those spaces being used more on a daily basis.
- Improved image as interiors are perceived as "more expensive" - this has more to do with perception and imagery, however, research shows that interiors with potted plants are perceived to be more expensive than those without plants.

Feb 2017
Plants you must have in your lawn
Tulsi: There are four types of tulsi: Rama, Krishna, Vana & Kapoor.  This queen of herbs is known for its remarkable healing properties. Tulsi is taken in tea. The oil extracted from the Karpoora Tulsi is mostly used in the herbal toiletry. Its oil is also used to fight insects and bacteria. The Rama Tulsi is an effective remedy for acute respiratory syndrome. Juice of its leaves gives relief in cold, fever, bronchitis and cough. Tulsi oil is also used as ear drop. Tulsi helps in curing malaria. It is very effective in cases of indigestion, headache, hysteria, insomnia and cholera.
Aloe Vera: The aloe vera sap is extremely useful in healing or reducing the risk of infections in wounds, cuts, burns and also in reducing inflammation. Apart from its external use on the skin, aloe vera is also taken internally in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (drinking aloe vera juice), chronic constipation, poor appetite, digestive problems.
Calendula: It grows in almost any type of soil condition. It has no problem with nutritionally poor, very acidic or very alkaline soils, just as long as it’s moist. Well known as a remedy for skin problems, the deep-orange flowered-pot marigold variety is applied externally to bites, stings, sprains, wounds, sore eyes, varicose veins. Internally it is used to treat fevers and chronic infections. The tea of the petals tones up circulation and, taken regularly, eases varicose veins.
Basil: You must have used basil lot many times in food but have you ever tried it to heal flatulence? It has the power to treat cuts, lack of appetite, gas and scrapes.
Thyme: It is mostly known for its strong antiseptic nature. It is wonderful when it comes to the treatment of congestion, gas, coughs etc.
 Rosemary: Rosemary is the great reviver. This perennial woody herb stimulates energy and optimism and sharpens memory and concentration by bringing more oxygen into the brain. It’s a wonderfully stimulating alternative to caffeine. A row of these long-lived and drought-tolerant plants makes for a beautiful, bee-friendly, evergreen hedge.
Lavender: Long recognized for its sweet perfume, lavender also boasts of medical benefits as a nervine and mild antidepressant. Add it to your bath to alleviate stress, tension and insomnia. It's also used in creams to treat sunburns and acne. Woody lavender plants prefer hot, sunny and dry environments. The fresh flowers are tasty in small doses when added to salads, honey, butter, lemonade, and even shortbread cookies.
Fenugreek, Methi: Fenugreek seeds are nourishing and taken to encourage weight gain, inhibit cancer of the liver, lower blood cholesterol levels, treat inflammation and ulcers of the stomach and intestines, drain off sweat ducts, for body building, for late onset diabetes,  poor digestion,   insufficient lactation, painful menstruation, labor pains, freshening bad breath and to restore sense of taste.
Lemon Balm: The reason the plant is called lemon balm is because of the lemon minty scent of the leaves. The flowers, which appear during the summer, are full of nectar. The crushed leaves, when rubbed on the skin, are used as mosquito repellent, herpes, sores, gout, insect bites.  Infusion of the leaves with water are known to treat colds, fevers, indigestion due to nervous tension, digestive upsets in children, hyperthyroidism, depression, mild insomnia and headaches.
 Globe Artichoke: A bitter tasting plant that requires a lot of sun, the cardoon has become important as a medicinal herb in recent years following the discovery of cynarin. The cardoon leaves, best harvested before flowering, helps to improve liver and gall bladder function,    stimulate the secretion of digestive juices, lower blood cholesterol levels, treat chronic liver and gall bladder diseases, jaundice, hepatitis, arteriosclerosis and early stages of late-onset diabetes.
 Ashwangandha: Ashwagandha is best known for stress reduction but its benefits are many; In addition to promoting fertility, aiding in wound care, and boosting the immune system, some other benefits are diuretic, sleep aid, galactogogue, anti-epileptic, anti-tumor, pain relief, eye health, heart tonic, lowers cholesterol & regulates blood sugar, reduces depression and anxiety, combats stress, fights cognitive decline due to brain cell degeneration.
Lemon Grass: Lemongrass has been reported to have innumerable therapeutic and other health benefits like to alleviate certain respiratory conditions including laryngitis and sore throats,    anti-pyretic property which reduces high fevers, useful in all types of pain including abdominal pain, headaches, joint pains, muscle pains, digestive tract spasms, muscle cramps, stomachache and others, lemongrass inhibits bacteria and yeast growth, beneficial for nervous and stress-related conditions.
Costus: Costus igneus, commonly known as insulin plant in India, belongs to the family Costaceae. Consumption of the leaves are believed to lower blood glucose levels, and diabetics who consumed the leaves of this plant did report a fall in their blood glucose levels.
Stevia: With its steviol glycoside extracts having up to 300 times the sweetness of sugar, stevia has garnered attention with the rise in demand for low-carbohydrate, low-sugar food alternatives. Because stevia has a negligible effect on blood glucose, it is attractive as a natural sweetener to people on carbohydrate-controlled diets.
Marsh Mallow: The plant of which marshmallows were once made of! The root is taken internally to treat : inflammations and irritations of the urinary and respiratory mucus membranes, counter excess stomach acid, peptic ulceration, gastritis. Externally, the root is applied to bruises, sprains, aching muscles, insect bites skin inflammations, splinters. The leaves are very edible, unlike the aloe vera. They can be added to salads, boiled, or fried. It is known to help in cystitis and frequent urination.
Chamomile: With a sweet, crisp, fruity and herbaceous fragrance, it has long been used medicinally as a remedy for problems regarding the digestive system. It has a soothing and calming effect in the area of aromatherapy, used to end stress and aid in sleep. The entire herb is used to treat common aches like toothache, earache, shoulder pain and neuralgia.
 Tea Tree: Even the aborigines have been using the tea tree leaves for medicinal purposes like chewing young leaves to relieve headaches. The tea tree oil is anti fungal, antibacterial, antiseptic and deserves a place in every household medicine box. Tea tree oil can be used to treat cystitis, glandular fever, chronic fatigue syndrome, thrush, vaginal infections, acne, athlete’s foot, warts, insect bites, cold sores, nits and minor burns. (Courtesy: Nurserylive.in)

Jan 2017
Natural ways to keep your pet’s tummy healthy
When your pet is suffering from an upset stomach, you must notice that it tries to sneak into the lawn and eat grass or leaves of certain plants. There are mainly two reasons for this. The most obvious is that as it is in pain, it wants to vomit and throw out the acids/bile, or whatever is rotting in the stomach. Like us, he too would feel some instant relief after vomiting. The other reason can be that animals are born naturopaths and know medicinal plants and herbs that can help them cure an aching tummy or even acidity. Though some pets may ‘think’ they know it and end up even worse after eating wrong type of leaves. So it is always a best practice to take your dog to the veterinarian.
Things To Look For
Some dogs like to add greens to their diet others do utilize grass as an effective natural means for stomach ache relief.
Fecal matter mixed in with grass
Stray fecal matter mixed into the grass can bring parasites and disease if your dog eats it, so a clean lawn is best.
Pesticide residue
Pesticide residue can make your dog very sick, and can even kill him. For this reason, you should only use pet friendly or pet safe garden supplies.
Excess vomit following consumption of grass
Excess vomiting following grass eating is a sure indicator that your dog is sick. The grass gets swallowed in long strands because the dog won’t chew it completely when feeling ill. The long grass stimulates the stomach causing him to experience involuntary vomiting. When this occurs, a trip to the vet can ease the dog’s ailment and your mind.
Habitual grass eating
Habitual grass eating may be a sign that your dog is lacking in needed nutrients. To make sure your dog is getting a balanced diet whether it's a strict kibble intake, wet intake, or a combination of both, look for labeling that boasts of complete nutrition for dogs. A pretty good indicator that a dog food is of good quality is when it offers real meat products (not meat by-products) as the first ingredient. The best is to give him home-cooked balanced diet.
24 Hour Fasting For Dogs
When a dog has upset tummy, fasting for 24 hours is the best way to heal him. Though, the dog gets really excited when it comes to dinner time and is beside his plate most punctually as if he can read the clock. Food to a dog consists of just about anything that fits in his mouth. Because of this, a dog with an upset stomach may not seem all that rare. Providing no blood is found in the vomit or stool, the ‘issue’ can usually be resolved with a 24 hour fasting. This fasting time does have rules attached to avoid dehydration:Adult dogs can manage a full 24 hour fast.
Younger dogs must receive small meals of easily digestible bland foods during the 24 hours period.
Supply plenty of fresh water, even though a sick dog may not want to drink, you must encourage liquid consumption.
Should the dog refuse to drink (sometimes drinking water makes the stomach feel worse), ice-cubes or ice-chips are in order. The crunch will feel more like food than water, which can result in the dog eating the ice, thus hydrating his body.
Following the 24 hour fasting period, reintroduce small easily digestible bland meals to your dog three or four times a day, for the first day or two.
Treating a dog's upset stomach using
Ginger : Ginger is well known not only for its wonderful spicy flavor, but also serves as a medicinal aide for stomach discomfort. We humans stir it into our dishes and steep it into herbaceous teas not just for the flavor but as a natural cure for an upset stomach. If your dog has a stomach ache, be sure to share some ginger with him, as it works great for your pet too.
Rice: Make warm rice water by straining the water after cooking a small amount of uncooked rice in a larger amount of water. Boil and stir 1 cup rice in 1 quart water for about twenty minutes, then strain the rice and give some of the warm or cooled rice water to your dog. You can also make watery rice porridge by boiling already cooked rice in a pot of water or homemade veggie broth. Cook 1 cup rice as usual in a rice cooker or pot, then add it to 3 quarts low boiling water or broth for twenty minutes stirring occasionally. Rice grains should look mushy like little stars. Give your dog enough to remain hydrated and store the rest in the fridge for later. When you warm up another bowl, add a little water to thin it out.
Food additions: Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, bananas, and oatmeal are gentle foods that can be added to your dog’s meal to help settle the stomach, maybe even help chronic stomach upset.
Chamomile tea great for your dog
 One of the most useful purposes of chamomile is to calm the digestive system. In cases of indigestion, vomiting and gas, chamomile’s carminative properties can help soothe a nervous stomach. In these instances, a tincture or an infusion of cooled chamomile tea can be used. You can also take the easy route and use tea bags if you prefer.  The tea should be brewed strong and you can add a little honey to help your dog digest it.  Because the tea should be on the strong side, the best recipe is to use four tea bags to one cup of boiling water.  Make sure it has completely cooled before feeding.
 Cooled tea can be used on irritated skin as a rinse. This is a particularly good idea in combating the effects of flea bites, minor infections and even allergies. The cooled tea has a soothing effect and can be applied directly to your dog’s coat. After application, simply allow your four-legged friend to drip dry. You can also add aloe vera juice or peppermint tea to increase the anti-itch properties.
Chamomile is also useful when it comes to worms. While many turn to strong anthelmintic herbs like wormwood, chamomile is an extremely valuable option. It is a non-toxic treatment that may not work as quickly, but it can be used over long periods of time and can combine with measures like wormwood. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for cutting down on side effects.
Chamomile has also been known to help in treating anxiety in dogs. It has been used by those with nervous dogs to help settle them down before bed.
Dosage: You have to use your own judgment here based on the size of your dog.  But, one tablespoon every two hours until your dog’s tummy is feeling better, is a good rule of thumb for most medium to large size dogs.  If your dog is tiny or extra large, then you may want to adjust accordingly.
Precaution: If your dog is pregnant, you should limit use of chamomile to its tea form. Some animals are also allergic to chamomile. A small amount of chamomile on your dog’s skin should determine any allergic reactions. Redness, itching should occur within a few hours if allergies are present.
Don’t let your dog get dehydration
Dogs, and especially young pups are very susceptible to occurrences of dehydration. If you notice that your dog has diarrhea or doesn’t seem to have an appetite or be interested in drinking water, then your dog is taking the first step towards dehydration. You can check to see if your dog is already dehydrated by assessing the appearance of his or her skin and gums. If you lift the lip of your dogs, the gums should be coated with a shiny wet film. If not, then he or she may be dehydrated. To check the skin to see if your dog is dehydrated, squeeze the skin behind the neck as if you were going to pick your dog up as his or her mother would. Release the skin. If the skin stays in the pinched position, your dog is dehydrated. If it automatically goes back to lying flat on the neck, your dog is not dehydrated. This is the same method used to check humans. If you’ve ever had someone pinch the skin on your hand and then watch to see if it goes back to its original form, you have experienced the same kind of dehydration test. Don’t assume that you can prevent dehydration by offering water to your furry pet. Your pet also needs electrolytes and vitamins in order to retain fluids. If your dog does not improve within 24 hours, take him to the vet immediately.

Dec 2016
Make your lawn butterfly friendly
Who doesn’t like the sight of a butterfly! Bright shiny wings, delicate soft body and a fantasy to boot— haven’t we all heard from our grandmothers that these brilliantly coloured ‘beings’ are fairies that visit the earth and help nice people— the butterfly is a must have in a lawn to add to its value. But in today’s polluted environment, when even the human beings are left gasping for fresh air, the nature’s most beautiful creatures are finding it tough to survive. The rapid rate of urbanization and preference for potted plants over shrubs, bushes and grass are robbing it of its habitat. The frenzy for a neat lawn is also a cause of concern as there is hardly any place in such a set-up for insects, bees or flies to live and breed. However, there is hope yet if you really want butterflies to add colour to your lawn and for your kids to be able to enjoy and appreciate Nature’s marvels—you don’t want them to identify a butterfly on the net or in a book without having ever laying an eye on one! They are not dinosaurs! The same is with honeybees. They are quite harmless unless provoked and should be allowed to exist in your garden. Honeybees can co-exist with us very naturally and happily and make their hive on trees near you. And, no, they shall not attack you even if you venture near it. They are quite good natured and docile contrary to the myth that as soon as you spot a hive, the entire ‘army’ would unleash its fury upon you. They also get used to you if you get used to them and do not disturb them. There are certain measures you can take to make your lawn welcoming to the pollinators.
Plant nectar & pollen rich flowers
The most important step you can take is to plant a pollinator-friendly garden. Choose nectar and pollen-rich plants like wildflowers and old-fashioned varieties of flowers. A succession of blooming annuals, perennials and shrubs is best so nectar and pollen will be available throughout the growing season. Also, include plants like dill, fennel and milkweed that butterfly larvae feed on. Any size garden can attract and support pollinators — from a wildflower meadow to a planter with a few well-chosen species. Researchers have found that communities of bees can sustain themselves for long periods of time in small vacant city lots. A patchwork of pollinator gardens in neighborhoods, cities and rural areas around the country could provide enough habitats to restore healthy communities of beneficial insects and pollinators.
Go organic
Many pesticides — even organic ones — are toxic to bees and other beneficial organisms. There is no need to use powerful poisons to protect your garden from insects and diseases. In the short term they may provide a quick knock-down to the attackers, but they also kill beneficial organisms. In the long term, you expose yourself, family, pets and wildlife to toxic chemicals, and risk disrupting the natural ecosystem that you and your garden inhabit. An organic approach is both safer and more effective. By applying the simple principles of ecological plant protection, you can work with nature to control pests and diseases, enjoy a healthier garden and harvest and protect pollinators and other beneficial insects. If you do apply pesticides make sure you apply them carefully and selectively. To protect pollinators, do not use pesticides on open blossoms or when bees or other pollinators are present.
Provide shelter
Butterflies, bees and other pollinators need shelter to hide from predators, get out of the elements and rear their young. Let a hedgerow or part of your lawn grow wild for ground-nesting bees. Let a pile of grass cuttings or a log decompose in a sunny place on the ground. Or, allow a dead tree to stand to create nooks for butterflies and solitary bees. Artificial nesting boxes can also help increase the population of pollinators in your area. Wooden blocks with the proper-sized holes drilled into them will attract mason bees. Bat boxes provide a place for bats to raise their young.
Provide food & water
A pollinator garden will provide pollen and nectar. Consider adding special feeders to help attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Bees, birds and butterflies also all need water. Install a water garden, a birdbath or a catch basin for rain. Butterflies are attracted to muddy puddles which they will flock to for salts and nutrients as well as water. You don't have to live in the country to keep bees. All you need is a little space, a water source, plenty of nearby flowers for them to visit, and a willingness to learn. Keeping a beehive or two in the backyard used to be a common practice. Maybe it's time to bring back this old-fashioned hobby. It does require equipment and some specific knowledge. But it's nothing an interested hobbyist can't handle.
Plants that attract butterflies
•    Alyssum
•    Aster
•    Bee balm
•    Butterfly bush
•    Calendula
•    Cosmos
•    Daylily
•    Delphinium
•    Dianthus
•    Fennel
•    Globe thistle
•    Goldenrod
•    Hollyhock
•    Lavender
•    Liatris
•    Marigold
•    Musk mallow
•    Nasturtium
•    Oregano
•    Phlox
•    Purple coneflower
•    Queen Anne's lace
•    Sage
•    Scabiosa
•    Shasta daisy
•    Stonecrop
•    Verbena
•    Yarrow
•    Zinnia
Plants that attract butterfly larvae (caterpillars)
•    Borage
•    Fennel
•    Grasses
•    Hollyhocks
•    Lupine
•    Milkweed
•    Nettle
•    Thistle
•    Willow
Plants that attract bees
Perennials and Annuals
•    Allium
•    Aster
•    Basil
•    Bee balm
•    Bee plant
•    Bergamot
•    Blanket flower
•    Borage
•    Cosmos
•    Flax
•    Four o'clock
•    Gaillardia
•    Geranium
•    Giant hyssop
•    Globe thistle
•    Goldenrod
•    Helianthus
•    Hyssop
•    Joe-pye weed
•    Lavender
•    Lupine
•    Marjoram
•    Mint
•    Mullein
•    Paint brush
•    Poppy
•    Rosemary
•    Sage
•    Skullcap
•    Sunflower
•    Thyme
•    Verbena
•    Wallflower
•    Wild rose
•    Zinnia

Preventing bad breath in dogs -----June 2017

Your pet comes to lick your cheek when you return home after a day’s hectic work, and you happily bend down to oblige. But, the very next moment, you straighten up with a ‘yelp’—your pet dog’s breath smells like rotten eggs! Bad breath—or halitosis— is the outcome of a buildup of smell producing bacteria in the dog’s mouth, lungs or gut. Constant bad breath can be a sign that your dog needs some dental care or suffers from poor digestion. Thus, it is always advisable to pay heed to the problem and avoid unwanted medical problems later on.

Some causes of bad breath in dogs

Eating canned dog foods, food high in fish oils, food that is too hard to digest, and sneaking from other pet’s food bowl are the common causes of bad breath in dogs;

If any food or hair particle gets stuck in your dog’s teeth;

Teething is the most common reason for having bad breath in puppies and dogs in which the bacteria get deposited in the gum line;

Periodontal disease (a painful dental or gum disease) that may lead to loss of the tooth; It also damages the organs like kidneys, liver, and heart. In this condition, the plaque gets matured and cause irritating gingivitis;

Gastrointestinal diseases (in stomach, liver, esophagus or intestine);

Oral diseases like stomatitis (painful inflammation of the gums) and oral masses (Cancerous growth) and gingival hyperplasia in which gums are overgrown;

Metabolic disease (in kidneys) causes sour smelling breath, which occurs by the abnormal presence of some toxins in the blood; and

Diabetes (a sign where bad breath can smell sweet or fruity)

The most important thing to do is to consult a vet. But if everything is fine health-wise, there are certain home remedies that can help rid your dog of stint.

Some natural remedies to help to fight bad breath

1. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that help in reducing the stinky smell from your dog’s mouth. Apart from combating the bad breath, coconut oil has many other uses. It is good for your dog digestive, immune, and metabolic system. Coconut oil consists of antiviral properties, which help in preventing and treating yeast infections. Also, it is good for your dog’s skin, bones, and brain. Take 1 tsp of coconut oil and mix it in your dog’s food or you can simply cook your dog’s food in coconut oil. Coconut oil is also used for brushing your dog’s teeth. This oil is sweet in taste and dogs to love it. So try giving 1 tsp of coconut oil to your dog every day to keep the stinking smell at bay. Make the habit of using coconut oil in your dog’s food and you will notice a pleasant change in your dog’s breath.

2. Lemon: Lemon has a strong and nice smell. It contains a citrus property that stops bacteria from growing inside your dog’s mouth, thus prevents bad breath. It is a simple remedy for bad breath, yet very effective. Just add a few drops of lemon juice to your dog’s drinking water or whenever you fill or change your dog’s water, squeeze a lemon into it. Lemon act as a natural bleach that will help to clean your dog’s mouth thus provides a fresh smell to the mouth.

3. Carrot: Carrot contains beta-carotene which is one of the powerful natural antioxidants. It helps in protecting the body from the dangerous free radical injury. It is a rich source of vitamins and plays a major role in maintaining good health. Plaque is one of the common causes of bad breath. Carrot is known for removing the plaque because of its abrasive quality. So, it is important to feed carrots to your dogs to get rid of bad breath. Cut 1-2 carrots into medium size pieces and give it to your dog in between the meals or after the food. Chewing the carrots stimulates the saliva, which in turn cleanses away all the food particles from the mouth and in between the teeth. By adding carrots to your dog’s daily diet, you will soon find relief from dog bad breath.

4. Brown Rice: Brown rice is high in fiber, which is good for digestion. It is also loaded with powerful antioxidants, which prevent many diseases like cancer, diabetes etc. Digestion plays a vital role in a dog’s breath. Instead of white rice, give your dog a bowl of brown rice1-2 times a day. By adding some cooked brown rice to your dog’s daily diet will help in preventing bad breath, which is caused by indigestion or other gastrointestinal diseases.

5. Parsley: Parsley is mostly used to control bad breath. The chlorophyll present in this green plant helps in neutralizing the odor. Take a bunch of parsley leaves, and add this to 500 ml of boiling water. Steep it for 10-15 minutes, and then drain the leaves. Let it cool for some time. Now, you can give this to your pet to drink. Most probably, your dog will not like the taste, and will spew out. So, you can take a spray bottle and fill it with parsley water and spray it into your dog’s mouth. Another method is: Take a few fresh parsley leaves and finely chop it. Then add it to your dog’s favorite food. Give your dog some parsley leaves to chew, which will help give a fresh smell to your dog’s mouth, and thus will reduce the bad odor.

6. Yogurt: Yogurt acts as an antidote for bad breath. Researchers have found that taking yogurt at least twice a day will help to reduce hydrogen sulfide, which is a compound that causes bad breath. It has also been found that yogurt is a rich source of calcium, which benefits the oral health.  Yogurt can be mixed with brown rice, or you can simply give plain yogurt in the morning and night.

    Including yogurt in your dog’s daily diet can have many advantages besides controlling bad breath.

7. Brushing: Oral hygiene is also required for animals as well. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly will give a fresh smell, and also help to get rid of the cavities. But never use human toothpaste or baking soda to brush your dog’s teeth as the toothpaste contains some detergents, which are harmful to your dog if swallowed. Also, baking soda contains a lot of sodium, which can make them sick.

8. Chew Treats: There are varieties of chew treats available in the pet shop, which you can give to your dog. Remember to choose the right one for your dog, depending on their size, as small chew treats given to big dogs will not work as they can swallow it, which can cause choking. Older dogs should be given soft chews, as their teeth’s will not be very strong.

Beside the above-mentioned tips, you can give plenty of water to your dog to drink daily as it will keep their mouth moist and keep the bacteria causing bad breath at bay. Ensure that your dog’s food and water bowl is cleaned properly as unclean vessels provide bacteria to grow, one of the main causes of bad breath. Take your dog for a routine check up to the vet at least 1-2 times in a year to detect if there is any problem.  

Give your pooch daal by all means - November 2016

Lentils (daal) are healthy and full of beneficial compounds. Can your dogs eat lentils? Yes, your dog can eat lentils. Lentils are a healthy source of protein, fiber and iron. Thus, your dog will benefit by having a home cooked meal including lentils. Lentils are healthy and your dog can take advantage of their beneficial properties. The lentils are alkaline and does not cause gas in most dogs. This is important because gas in dogs can be painful and also cause bloating. Bloating can eventually lead to death if left untreated. Caring for the gas bubbles in your dog’s belly begins before food is given. Do your research and look for foods that are alkaline based. Choosing alkaline foods is a better alternative that grabbing any type of food of the shelf and tossing your dog a treat.

Best lentils for your dog: Split yellow lentils and split red lentils are the best and most digestible lentils to give to your dogs. However, dogs digest beans, including lentils, differently than humans. This is why you should pay close attention to your dog’s reaction to the new food, to spot possible digestive or bowel issues that might occur. When giving your dog lentils for the first time, always offer a small amount and watch for a reaction. In the event your dog has a reaction, continue to monitor and make notes of the symptoms and confer with your vet right away. Moreover, if your dog reacts positively to the new ingredient, it is still recommended to provide lentils to your canine buddy only occasionally and in moderation. Just because your dog can tolerate the lentil does not mean the lentil should always be offered. You should not make beans a regular addition to your dog’s diet and neither should it replace his usual food. Doing so could cause your dog to become a picky eater and refuse his/her traditionally healthy food made for their bodies. Also, the food that is tolerated once or twice may not become a tolerated food if given often and in place of dog food.

Lentils are beneficial for dogs suffering from diabetes: Lentils are an ingredient considered as part of a recommendable meal for people suffering from diabetes. The bean has low sugar content, and provides vitamins and fibers needed to release toxins from the digestive tract. Lentils also help one feel fuller longer, and avoid overeating of other foods. The trick of eating low sugar and high fiber beans works for adults, and also works for the dogs. Thus, if your canine buddy has diabetes, you might consider including lentils into his diet and carefully watch for possible side effects. Your dog may have a lower body weight, less urges to find and hunt food in the kitchen and a better immune system from the added fiber content. Whether you decide to add lentils to the diet of your dog (with or without diabetes), it is best to consult with the vet if you plan on giving lentils to your dog regularly. The vet will offer the best advice and determine whether this is a need for your dog.

Lentils health benefits: Many people are looking for a fountain of youth and special foods guaranteed to prolong lives not just for themselves, but for their pets as well. It’s no secret that lentils are healthy legumes that provide our bodies with amazing beneficial compounds and healthy fiber. Lentils are an ideal source of cholesterol-lowering fiber. Lentils intake helps in hindering blood sugar levels after having meal. Lentils provide great nutritional value. They are low in fat and the calorie intake is low. These multi faceted benefits bring lentils to the fore front on the healthy food list as a food that is low in fat, low in cal, high in fiber and lowers blood sugar. With the huge benefit to humans on a nutritional basis, the vitamins and minerals should also have the same effect upon the body of a dog.

Lentils are a great source of energy: This legume is an excellent source of iron which provides your furry pet the amount of energy she/he requires to be healthy and active. Dogs must have a strong amount of iron in their system to have a healthy blood count-just as their owners need proper blood count and circulation. Iron is an essential part of hemoglobin. Its role is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body’s cells while at the same time playing a crucial role in boosting the proper functioning of the metabolism and producing energy. Iron is a mineral your dog’s body requires for energy and cardiovascular health. Your dog should have enough iron in his/her diet via the ingredients in your dog food. Iron is a key component in a met based diet and can be found in most kibbles and moist foods if needed. In the event your dog is low on iron, had a serious accident or surgery, or has been advised to have the iron levels increased, lentils are a good, natural source of vitamins to offer your dog. You may already have the beans on hand, making this food an even easier choice to offer your dog as a supplement. Lentils possible side effects: Even though lentils are healthy and nutritious addition to your dog’s diet, they can also present various side effects. Lentils contain high levels of phytate as well as trypsin inhibitors. To decrease the phytate content, you can consider soaking the lentils before cooking them. It’s best to soak them overnight whether you’re cooking the lentils for yourself or your furry pet. While this mostly depends on every individual dog, lentils consumption may lead to gas. However, that depends on the dog, as every dog reacts dissimilarly to different foods, lentils included. However, compared to other beans, lentils are better digestible. The worst thing that could happen is that they will cause your buddy digestive upset, diarrhea and gas.

The healthiest way of cooking lentils: Cooking lentils can’t be easier. Just add these legumes in a pot of boiling water and decrease the heat and let it simmer. Lentils should be well-cooked and preferably mashed or pureed. You might also consider adding some carrots and brown rice to your dog’s home cooked meal to offer your pet a varied meal. Rice is also great for treating loose stools or upset tummy. However, steer clear of including any spices or salt. Remember, you are preparing this food for your dog and extra spices are not suitable for pets. You can add cooked lentils to your dog’s usual canned dog food as well. This way the can of food lasts a little longer, but will add omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and other minerals to it. Fatty acids help to keep your pet’s coat and skin and healthy.

Thus, the bottom line is that lentils are healthy and beneficial for your dog. However, as the same diet doesn’t apply to all canines, supervising your pet’s behavior after introducing new ingredients is always a good idea. Lentils provide your furry pet with healthy protein, energy, high levels of essential minerals, including iron and magnesium, assuring your pet’s dietary requirements. Just remember to introduce any new foods, including lentils, to your dog gradually and in small quantities. Monitor your pet afterwards for any suspicions behavior such as digestive issues and loose stool. If your pooch doesn’t show any unusual symptoms, you can continue with the new food.

 

Here’s how you must keep fish in aquarium - October-2016

There is nothing more beautiful than a mix of healthy fish and beautiful live plants coexisting in one tank. But plants don’t just provide visual interest—they can also add to the overall health of an aquarium. Plants give fish a secure hiding place, provide natural spawning sites, and can even improve a tank’s water quality. When setting up an aquarium for the first time, you should choose plants that are hardy and low-maintenance. The best freshwater aquarium plants will be green. Green plants generally don’t require as much direct sunlight. Too much sunlight may cause excess algae growth which will negatively impact the aquarium environment. This could result in the need for more maintenance and cleaning from you.

Downoi or “Little Star” (&