I was not going to write this blog for some time since my Border Collie, Myst, who was diagnosed with bladder cancer and had it confirmed with the Cadet Braf test was diagnosed July 7/7/21 on a regular annual vet visit. Today, February 26 2023 she is doing well with no life style change for this very high energy performance dog. I thought surely that any positive note about this would perhaps be a curse.
 
Then Dr. Karen Becker wrote in a recent newsletter “Dr Becker’s Food Recommendations for Cancer.” Reading this I was a little surprised to find that Myst has been on this diet for most of her time since diagnosis. Since life expectancy is usually 2-4 months without treatment and 4-6 with treatments Myst’s 21 months of wellness and normal activity is impressive.. I thought it was time to share her health story with others incase some of this information might be of value to prolonging a life and most importantly QUALITY OF LIFE.
 
THE EARLY DAYS
On annual exam for urine collection (since Myst was not doing a free catch) an ultrasound was done for Cystocentesis. The ultrasound showed a mass in the bladder so no urine was collected and the next step was diagnosis. A Cadet Braf urine test showed transitional cell cancer. Myst was started on Palladia 60 mg three times a week and Piroxicam daily.
 
I also consulted with a wonderful vet in New York whom I have consulted with for
years for alternative suggestions and she recommended I’m Yunity mushrooms which had a priority sale due to their Single Agent Polysaccharopeptide which a study at Penn State University showed delayed metastases and improved survival in naturally occurring hemangiosarcoma. The study was conducted by two University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine faculty. Dorothy Cimino Brown is professor and chair of the Department of Clinical Studies and director of the Veterinary Clinical Investigation Center. They published their findings in an open-access article in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The Coriolus versicolor mushroom (Turkey Tail), known commonly as the Yunzhi mushroom, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years. The compound in the mushroom that is believed to have immune-boosting properties is polysaccharopeptide, or PSP. In the last two decades, some studies have suggested that PSP also has a tumor-fighting effect.

In September 2021 Myst was started on I’m Yunnity mushrooms (5 per day).
However in October 2021 she was taken off of the chemotherapy agent Palladia due to diarrhea that was not able to be controlled. I also did not like this drug due to the extreme care with giving chemotherapy and having another younger dog using the same dog run.
At this time she was having regular ultrasounds to monitor the growth of the tumor. There were minimal changes in the tumor until she was taken off of the Palladia and then it did show enlargement.

LIFESTYLE ISSUES
When Myst was diagnosed in July it was very important to me that no matter what the treatment, her response and time she had I did was not going to change her lifestyle unless her condition indicated she was not tolerating her normality. She is a red, high energy, Border Collie who loved her life and activity. Her lifestyle included herding lesson, competing in herding competition, traveling, hiking at least 3-4 days a week in northern AZ off leash, obedience and scent work competitions training.
I carefully monitored things such as hiking and time out hiking, and competitions and she clearly did not show it was too much for her.. Myst was still the same wild and crazy girl that loved life.

HER DIET
My dogs have always been on raw food (at this time alternating Bones and Co, Raw Bistro and Small Batch). I always purchased Green JuJu greens and golden blend to add to the food as well as daily blueberries, raspberries and apples…… all organic. In September I started making my own broccoli sprouts that she received daily. Dogs received decaf green tea to warm food in morning; Green JuJu bone broth warmed for evening meal and Bones and Co fermented Goats milk before bed with a few berries and coconut chips. They also receive organic eggs, sauerkraut and sardines regularly each week.
​
Here is what Dr. Karen Becker just posted regarding diet for dogs with cancer that caught my attention: “A healthy diet for your animal companion — one that is anti-inflammatory (low starch) and not metabolically stressful — consists of real, whole foods, preferably raw…. he more unnecessary and inappropriate the food (in this case, carbs), the more metabolic stress your pet must deal with.
 
Certain supplements and add-ins can also be very beneficial to enhance immune function, including:
•           Sprouts
•           Medicinal mushrooms
•           Turmeric/curcumin
•           Super green foods and brightly colored veggies
•           Decaf green tea
•           Fermented vegetables
 
THE JOURNEY CONTINUED…
Since Myst’s tumor appeared to be enlarging, I again consulted with my New York vet who made a few recommendations for her liver dealing with these toxins as well as finding a practitioner that understood Chinese medicine since she knew in the past she had known about an herb that was excellent specific for bladder cancer.
 
Dr. Todd Metcalf, who at that time (December 2021) resided near me in the Verde Valley and whom I had established care with in the past did know of such an herb and ordered it for me. This amazing herb that he recommended was produced by several companies but he thought this companies was the best: Myst started on Chinese herb Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang from Natural Path Herbals.. 1 tsp. bid.. started on 12/22/21.
 
I noticed that this seemed to make a change in her overall wellness and she has continued on this. Dr. Metcalf orders this for me from a distributor in Vermont every few months.

Starting a few month ago Myst had urine leakage especially at night even though she went outside on her own during the night. I started taking her water up at 7:00 p.m. which did not help much. Then about a week ago she started having more urine spots where she was lying even after going out. I contacted my vet and we both concurred it could be partly her age (12 1/2) years and the tumor growing and possibly pushing up when she lies down. We started her on Proin 1/2 a 50 mg tablet both morning and evening and she has not had one drop of urine leakage. Fingers crossed. She continues to do well and has no changes in her activity, love of food or love of life. 
 
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS.—WONDER HEALING
I became fascinated with medicinal mushrooms by listening to an Inside Scoop presentation (Dr Karen Becker and Rodney Habib) by Dr. Ray Silver from Canada. In this presentation he discussed Turkey Tail and its amazing uses for inflammation as well as the herb of immortality Reishi. Dr Silver talked about Reishi supporting the immune response of Turkey Tail and would be an excellent addition. I learned about an excellent company that QUALITY MUSHROOMS could be purchased from for both animals and humans….. REAL MUSHROOMS located in Canada.
 
Real Mushroom founder, SKYE CHILTON worked closely with his father Jeff Clinton a master mushroom cultivator who worked closely with Chinese producers to ensure quality and developed rigorous testing measures to accurately show his customers what they were Jeff had  over 40 years of growing experience and was the first to bring organic mushroom extracts to the North American market. .
 
The most important active compounds in real mushrooms include beta-d-glucans, triterpenoids, diverse polysaccharides, ergosterol, and ergothioneine. When used medicinally, each of these can have dynamic effects on the human body. It is critical that these components be known and measured to ensure the amazing medicinal effects we are learning about. The functional mushroom market place is dominated by products that do not contain any mushrooms. These products are produced from mycelium (the rood system of the mushroom) being grown on a grain substrate.
Read more about REAL MUSHROOMS  at https://www.realmushrooms.com/
 
In learning more about mushrooms to support Myst and cancer I became fascinated not only by TURKEY TAIL but also by REISHI. I contacted Dr. Ray Silver who along with mast herbalist Dr. Terry Willard said they did not know of overdose of the Reishi mushroom. Dr. Silver had given suggestions for a well dog supporting dose along with a larger dose for conditions such as cancer. Myst was started over a year ago on my human dose of one capsule for per day to accompany her I’m Yunnity and Turkey Tail. I introduced both mushroom additions slowly to be sure she tolerated them… which she did… I am now thinking of where we are going into month 21 of perhaps adding a pet dose of Reishe in the mornings.
 
“The Reishi fungus contains over 400 different bioactive compounds including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, nucleotides, sterols, steroids, fatty acids, proteins, peptides, and trace elements (3).they contain hundreds of bioactive compounds, mainly in the form of polysaccharides and triterpenes, that assist the body in numerous ways such as supporting the immune system.”
 
Read more about the REISHI mushroom at:
https://www.realmushrooms.com/reishi-mushroom-for-dogs/
 
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS: 7 KINDS AND HEALTH BENEFITS
https://www.realmushrooms.com/7-medicinal-mushroom-benefits-for-health/?utm_campaign=8-13-22%20Mushroom%20Benefits%20w%2F%203%20NEW%20bonus%20Blog%20re-blast%20%28apple%29%20%28RstaJh%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Email%20Client%3A%20Apple%20Mail%20%28Engaged%20120%29&_kx=TN_Kypxr81bHLXfIrz8-u-_tcFObQY1BIRp-aW93c8U%3D.L3MBgQ
 
Medicinal Mushrooms for Pets
https://www.realmushrooms.com/medicinal-mushrooms-pets/
 
TURKEY TAIL AND CANCER
https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/mushrooms-and-hemangiosarcoma-2/

For a fascinating look at the wonders of the REISHI Mushroom, read Reishi Mushrooms: Herb of Spiritual Potency and Medical Wonder by Terry Willard PhD. available from Amazon. Amazing insight into remissions and wonders with cancer both animal and human. Sadly as the author points out there has not been enough research to support recommendations for use and only those who venture on this journey on their own are finding incredible results.
 
______________________________________________________________________________________
 
Looking at Dr. Beckers article and recommendations has brought me here. I have attached a copy of Myst’s SUPPLEMENTS and DIET that I closely follow. She has regular blood work to monitor her blood count, liver and kidney values.. Those test have been totally normal and of course her supps for her liver are adjusted monthly such on one week on Milk Thistle but daily liver support with Vetriscience Hepataclear Pro.
Her Omega has been reviewed as well as Curcumim support AND of course support for the microbiome is ESSENTIAL so she has always been on rotation of pre and probiodics.
 
I have not wanted to know the progress of Myst’s tumor but only her wellness and enjoyment of life. In November 2022 she surprised us by earning her AKC HERDING CHAMPIONSHIP and at a NSW herding trial a month early won a special recognition. Myst earned her NSW1 title today and a wonderful surprise to be awarded the designation of PRONOUNCED. Judges ‘pronounce’ a handler/dog team demonstrating exceptional technique and/or teamwork for the search they judged. In order to receive the designation “Pronounced” the dog/handler receiving a “P” on all 4 searches in that trial receives the designation for the trial of Pronunced. Myst was one of 2 dogs who received this designation in addition to her title. Very proud of this senior dog. She continues to be happy and very active and we are so grateful for the support of a few caring vetererarians especially our local vet Dr. Celeste Flannery at AirPark Animal Hospital.

If I had to think about the most powerful contributors to Myst’s current health I would say they are: the Chinese herb Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang from Natural Path Herbals; I’m Yunnity mushroom; Turkey Tail mushroom and Reishi mushroom. These supplement along with her extremely healthy diet of raw and fresh fruits and vegetables.

 
COPY OF HER CURRENT DIET AND SUPPLEMENTS
 
Myst Food and Supplements
February 25 2023
Supplements
​
Morning:
-       Piroxicam 10 mg 1 daily; started 7/23/21
-       ThorneVet, CurcuVet- SA150 1 chewable
-       2- TDC (periodontal & joint support)  daily
-       Canna-Pet 1 tab (CBD)
-       Complete Probiotic Adored Beast Fido’s Flora probiodic (refrig)
-       Nordic Naturals 1 tsp.
-       I’m Yunity immunity mushrooms – 3
-       Real Mushrooms Turkey Tail - 1    
-       Chinese herb Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang from Natural Path Herbals.. 1 tsp. bid.. started on 12/22/21. Her WBC went from 4.71 Dec. 1st at Circle L to 5.8 Jan. 6th.
------Proin 1/2 a 50 mg tablet - STARTED ON 2/23/2023
-       One week of month extra Milk Thistle 500 mg for one week only. She gets some with the Hepaticlear but that prep has other things in it for her and one week which I did initially for 4 weeks brought her ALT of 174 Dec. 1st at C ircle L  to normal of 50 on Jan. 6th. ( tested by IDEX blood work. )
 
 
Evening
—   Vascustatin from Allergy Research Group: 1 daily (started 9/16/21 from Dr. Alex suggetion)
—   VetriScience Hepaticlear Pro – 1 daily (has 100 mg of Milk Thistle)
—   CurcuVet SA 150 1 chewable
—   Canna-Pet 1-2 tab (CBD)
—   I’m Yunity immunity mushrooms – 2 (5 total daily recommended dose based on Penn Vet research study
—   Real Mushrooms Turkey Tail – 1
—   Real Mushrooms Reishi – 1 human does
—   Ellura (cranberry) to help prevent bladder infections
—   Chinese herb Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang from Natural Path Herbals.. 1 tsp. bid..
—   ¼ C bison bone broth
--  Proin 1/2 a 50 mg tablet - STARTED ON 2/23/2023 AT 7:00 P.M.

​Adequin 1 cc monthly

 
 
FOOD:
·      Rotate between Raw Bistro, Small Batch and occasional Bones and Co (4 oz a.m and 4 oz p.m.). Raw rotation: pork, rabbit, turkey, bison, turkey, chicken
o   2 tsp. homemade organic broccoli sprouts morning
o   Blueberries
o   ¼ C of organic decaf green tea over food
o   ¼ C with Green JuJuBe
Green JuJu (Ingredients: Organic celery, organic zucchini, organic kale, organic dandelion greens, organic parsley bison bone broth, organic coconut oil, organic lemon, organic turmeric, organic ginger.) ¼ each meal
 
Evening added to raw food: Homemade veggies consisting of combination of some of these: carrots, parsnips, cauliflower, apples, cilantro ground ¼ tsp. in food. Rotate to Green JuJu’s Golden Blend (1/4 C): organic butternut squash, organic celery, duck bone broth, organic cauliflower, organic golden beets, organic coconut oil, organic apple cider vinegar, organic ginger, organic turmeric.
 
Sardines x5 days weekly;
1 egg x2 days;
 
Bedtime snack:
Currently on 2 TBSPs of Organic Goats Milk Kefir;  from
Cocotherapy Coconut ships 1 tsp.
Raspberries & dehydrated apple treats
 
 
 
 
 

After a lot of reading and research on human and dog’s health, I have learned the importance of a healthy microbiome. The microbiome is a unique collection of hundreds of different types of bacteria and other microbes (such as viruses, fungi, etc) in the gastrointestinal tract. Imbalance of bacteria in the gut leads to what is called “leaky gut” and ultimately leading to inflammation and many health problems in the body.
 
Pre and probiodics are used to help promote intestinal balance and prevent leaky gut. However, many things can disrupt this balance and lead to health problems. ANTIBIODICS are but one of these. Antibiodics are meant to kill all bacteria and in so doing disrupt the gut and may cause leaky gut.
 
Knowing this information many of us choose to be very careful not only about the foods we feed but also the use of drugs such as steroids and antibiotics. However there are times that we feel we must turn to the help of one of these drugs if the dog is not responding to good food and natural supplements.
 
Recently this happened to me. My young dog had been at 2 back to back shows: one a three day AKC herding trial, the other a 3 day indoor obedience show where there were conformation and obedience/rally dogs. Although he did not seem to be near other dogs and conformation was in a different area, there still could have been exposure.
 
When we got home on Sunday, he had a bout of reverse sneezing early the next morning. He still seemed to feel OK but progressed to have congestion. His behavior also changed in that he wanted to sleep very close to use and seemed worried with his reverse sneezing episodes and congestion.
I did not feel that he needed to see the vet at this time and I knew he would be put on antibiotics: he was not coughing or sneezing or having any mucous discourage.. just congestion. He also was sleeping more.
 
This progressed over the next few days until he seemed like he wanted to sleep more in the mornings. Since he was not getting better and seemed to be getting more congested and feeling worse I took him to the vet early the next morning.
 
His x-ray showed bronchitis and some mild swelling of his tonsils so he was put on antibiotics. I knew that it was important to use pre and probiotics but was not sure of the schedule and the need to rotate.
 
I totally trusted the research and product of Adored Beast and they are also available for online consult. I wrote to them and they immediately answered. URL: https://adoredbeast.com/
Below is a summary which I was given and am now following.

There were 4 of the Adored Beast products that were recommended to help restore the microbiome, strengthen the immune system and support detoxification (toxins being antibiotics, steroids, NSAIDs, and flea and tick meds as examples)

• Fido’s Flora
• Gut Soothe
• Liver Tonic
• Love Bugs

 
Initially while giving the antibiotics Fido’s Flora was recommended to give 3 hours away from the antibiotic such as before bedtime in perhaps a snack. Julie Anne Lee DCH RCSHom, founder and formulator for Adored Beast, wrote an article on Fido's Flora to help you learn more about this excellent probiotic.
 https://adoredbeast.com/probiotics-for-dogs-the-power-of-poop/
 
It was recommended that Gut Soothe, part of their leaky gut protocol, be given, finishing the one container. This is done to help offset the damage to the gut biome.
 
The liver tonic has always been recommended to be done twice a year for detoxification but in this case after the use of antibiotics, steroids, NSAIDS or flea and tick medication. Liver Tonic helps support your animal's liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and pancreas. All of these organs are paramount in the detoxification process and by supporting them, you help the entire body to stay healthy. Liver Tonic will assist the body to help regenerate healthy liver cells and boosts the organ’s ability to filter toxins from the blood.
 
After the treatment with antibiotics is complete then several of their pre and probiotics can be rotated: Fidos Flora and Love Bugs. Adored Beast  chose these bacteria specifically to strengthen your dog’s immune system and help keep your dog’s gastrointestinal tract calm during times of stress.
 
Visit the Adored Beast web site or the YouTube channel where Julie Anne Lee DCH RCSHom, founder and formulator for Adored Beast, discusses all our products and more!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2JePL6xYDo&t=6s


​

​Beckett is my 3rd obedience dog now competing in Open and Utility. Kaffee was my first and earned the very difficult OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion) title. Myst earned her UDX and OM (Obedience Master) and now Beckett has earned his UD and is working on his UDX. My goal has been to expose my very novice Utility dog to new experiences, new environments and now more than ever – PRESSURES IN THE RING that can cause momentary distraction in the dog or an inability to perform an exercise since they were not focused and concentrating.
 
One would think that we learn and apply most of what we need from previous dogs. What I am finding is this is such a false assumption. Yes, each dog is very very different in their drive, motivation, confidence, and natural talent. However, I am finding that obedience showing is now also very very different from when I worked on Kaffee's OTCH . When I was working on Kaffee’s OTCH the number in the classes in his early days might have been 8-12 dogs but when we were trying to finish his OTCH (points obtained by how many dogs were in the class and your placement), we almost always had to get first place to get any OTCH points since the class numbers were so low.
 

Today, this has changed. With a year off from showing or doing practice matches due to COVID, the number of entries in both Open and Utility are very high….. we are seeing 14-20 dogs in a class. What this means is not only are there more OTCH points available but also more very very good dogs showing – some of which typically get scores of 198, 199 or 200. What this means is in order to place we must also perfect our work in order to get any placement that could have points.
 
Since Beckett is very new to Utility (he just earned his UD a few months ago after starting work on it a few months prior). I am learning more about pressures in the ring that may cause a dog to loose their focus and in that moment may miss a signal, or command, or even choose to take a different jump in the UTILITY GO OUTS. For example in the show a week ago, a very seasoned judge had very challenging ways she exposed the dogs to pressure….. I am sure this is one way that they can separate out dogs and scores. First there were 3 rings; each was adjoining the other with no distance or alley between. The ring adjacent to the Open and Utility was rally. Rally signs came right up to and touched the Open/Utility ring. Our command discrimination in Open was right next to this ring and the judge stood very close to the dogs to give the CD commands. Very easy way to loose a dog’s focus.

Additionally recalls and dumbbell retrieve were done on the side of the ring where the steward’s table was, large number of people coming and going and watching and standing right next to the ring… Loud noise and very difficult to hear as well as for the dog to hear. I watched a friends dog in Utility become worried about this tight set-up, perhaps noise and so much going on around the scent articles. You could see. the dog start to worry and not perform the scent articles with confidence and then proceeded to move to the Utility GO OUT and be very unfocused and seemingly worried so she could not concentrate on this exercise and ended up with a NQ.... but it started with the previous exercise and pressures the dog was experiencing escalating to the GO OUTS
 
My goal for Beckett at this show was just to expose him to indoor showing since we normally show outdoors. In working on this goal, I was trying very very hard to keep his focus before we came into the ring, as we came in and between exercises. AND,,, just trying to be a good team partner to HELP AND SUPPORT HIM. Beckett surprised me on Day 1 and was invited back into the ring for a run off with 4 top dogs, some from California who normally get 199-200 scores. He not only got a 198 ½ in this class but also won the run off and won the class, eventually that day giving him his first obedience HIGH IN TRIAL. This was such a special moment which I may never have again in just this way but it was a highlight of my days showing obedience since there were 14 dogs in the class and many very very good seasoned dogs.
 
So what did I learn at this show to help me moving on and prepare me for new and unexpected challenges?

1.First, when we go to a show survey the ring set up and look for all the things in the environment that could cause my dog to be distracted.

2.Watch the judge’s heel pattern and where each exercise begins. Consider how I will keep my dog focused on and connected to me the entire time between exercises.

3.Watch runs and see what other pressure the judge is using on dogs such as how close and where they stand for exercises? How hard is this for my dog. What can I do to help them?
​
4.Visualize how I am going to do the run: outside the ring, coming into the ring. How am I going to move between exercises; how am I going to help my dog not loose his focus and attention knowing it can take 5-10 seconds to get it back. Figure into this pre-run visualization to TAKE MY TIME.. DO NOT RUSH. Do not become happy if the dog does a challenging GO OUT in Utility and then rush my signal to jump. Beckett is very different from my other 2 dogs: he does not want to be wrong and if I rush he seems to wonder if he is suppose to go… this at past shows has led to double commands – a NQ.
 
How do I Train in Preparation for Such Shows?

• First, I find a training partner and we go to many different parks and locations.
• We set up distraction challenges such as having our ring face children playing in a park or playground;, people coming and going or other very busy activity.
• We use each other to be the judge and put pressure on the dog. For example, I have worked very hard to not let Beckett look at a person who comes up next to him (i.e, the judge). He gets a tap on the head if he gets distracted. I ask my training partner to come very close to him and stand either next to him or close behind in all his exercises.
• In the Utility Signal command, judges are standing behind the dog or just to the side but very close.. We do this also.
• We look for places where there are distractions to do signals either with dog having these distractions behind or in front of them.
• Signals from long distances.
• We look for places with tight spaces for the command discrimination – pressure from sides and behind.
• The training partner judge follows the dog closely when heeling.
• For DIRECTED JUMPING, the training judge stands very close to the jump the dog has to take… Amazing how much pressure this is and Beckett early on would choose not to take the jump or take the other jump. Still a continual work in progress but he did very very well today as you will see in the video below.
• For articles, I play an article game in the house with my 2 Border Collies and put down 2 sets of articles (24 articles) in a different room. This helps with the motivation, competition, and learning to quickly determine the scented article. Somehow it has also really helped with not touching or picking up other articles.
• The training judge is asked to stand close to the article pile and then over the pile so the dog must ignore them and focus on the “find my article” command.
• For the Open recall we do the 4 pack: first a straight recall; next a drop with signal or voice, then walk into the dog (helps prevent their anticipation of the drop) and finally one of the other signals. Mix these up but practice all 4.
• Command Discrimination: in Utility B there are 4 different combinations; it is important to practice each one during a training session: perhaps 2, then another exercise; then the other 2.
• Beckett’s big weakness is LOOKING STRAIGHT FOR THE GO OUT – the MARK. He seems to do well in a typical ring set up with baby gates and the 2 jumps but misses the GO OUT and going straight when we work on longer distances and strange looking pole configurations… Much more work on this.
• Gloves…having my training partner judge stand right next to me or walk into Beckett from behind as he is retrieving it….. At the past show he was not focused well and thought he had to bring it to the judge .. fortunately only loosing points since he self corrected at the last minute. The moving judge on exercises where he has to retrieve (dumbbell, scent articles, gloves) have always been a challenge for his FRONTS.
• AND of course FRONTS and FINISHES must always be practiced from all angles and with added pressures for dog’s path… Major point loss if not perfectly correct.

 
Yes, this is a lot of work. AND, everyone is on a different journey. Since I have a lovely dog who enjoys working with me and can heel nicely, I am working very hard at improving scores. This is my assessment of what we need to practice..not each time but….. to be included when determining practice and preparing to go into the ring.
 
Below is a video from our club’s practice match today where I asked our judge, who is familiar with Utility, to put a lot of pressure on Beckett..  This video show this nicely and it also shows how much we have improved at staying connected between exercises… A wonderful learning journey with a very special dog.

After having so many obedience shows cancelled in Arizona this past year due to COVID, we finally got to an obedience show last weekend (March 21, 2021). I was not only so happy to finally be able to show again and to have an acceptable Open B run with my young Border Collie, Beckett, but also to get qualifying scores in the 190s for both Open B and Graduate Open (pre-utility class). Yes, I was happy that after over a year of not showing that my young dog did so well especially with distractions he was not accustomed to after training mostly alone.
 
After reviewing my show videos, I was not happy with how Beckett behaved between exercises especially when I thought I had been working on transitions and focus. I have spent a lot of time working on having Beckett not think that the judge was a friend to go and meet and greet and to not feel like he had to go visit all the new people that he certainly seemed to think just came to see and visit him
 
My inspiration for teamwork, showing and training in obedience has been Petra Ford as well as many virtual lessons with Laura Romanik who has provided invaluable feedback on my obedience training and showing videos. I have taken many of Petra’s online classes and have gotten feedback and help from working with Petra one on one. She has been such an inspiration to help model in the ring teamwork and precision. Her philosophy around making obedience fun and helping the dog believe that obedience is just a series of tricks has been so helpful in guiding how I train. Her new information on why dogs fail in the ring due to all the pressures they feel, has been invaluable in setting up exercises, proofing and fun work for Beckett.
 
This show was going to be feedback on where we are at. How well have I done with helping Beckett be happy with obedience, focused in the ring, less distracted and not failing an exercise possibly due to pressure? I did feel like so much of the training helped all of this but in watching the video all I could think was “Beckett had no manners in the show ring.” He was focused and did well in the exercises but when the work was complete he did not stay connected with me and in Open became obsessed with the dumbbell in the chair and when would he be able to retrieve it. His video is included to show this more clearly.
 
What were some of the new challenges with the post-COVID ring set up that we were not prepared for and did not train for?

• When we come into the ring we take off the leash and go and put it on a chair or where designated.
• We bring in our dumbbell for Open classes and place it outside, the ring. For this show it was in a chair outside the ring and the dumbbell was visible which it had never been before. In the past the DB has been brought out by the ring steward when the retrieve exercise began; it was not visibly showing while waiting for the exercise.
• When we do the Open exercises retrieve on the flat and high jump we go and get our dumbbell; in the past it was given to us by the ring steward.
• When we finish the retrieve exercises we must go and put it back on the visible area. At this show it is sitting on a chair outside the ring where the dog had to heel by and line up for the drop on recall.
• The ring setup is tighter than previously since now there are figure 8 cones in the ring.
• The open exit ring gate was an invitation for Beckett to think it was time for leaving the ring for his jackpot for good work.

 
What I realized was that Beckett was not being bad but he was acting exactly how I let him act in most of our training sessions. I had not asked for discipline from him to sit and wait while I placed his dumbbell when we came into the ring or got his dumbbell for the retrieves; to stay at my side when we transitioned between exercises and if he did. not to let him know he was not correct and to go back and not move forward until we were together; or to sit and wait as I was setting up the ring for another exercise such as scent articles or gloves in utility work. Yes, I knew a lot of this but did not insist as he would jump for the dumbbell as we moved from one retrieve to another or thought that the new green grass would be good to graze on. 
 
We have a three day obedience show in a week in Nevada. My training will not only support what I have been doing for pressure in the ring, fronts and finishes, heel work focus and position, the challenges of command discrimination, go outs and signals but will not include, “MANNERS IN THE RING”.
 
Over the last few days I have introduced a few new things into our training:

• Sit and wait when we come into the ring while I go and hang up your leash outside or the ring;
• Sit and wait while I go and put your dumbbell in a chair outside the ring;
• Transitions between retrieves (on the flat and over the high jump) and perhaps not have the dumbbell be visible to him as we move from one place to another;
• Sit and wait if I have leave his side for anything like setting up the ring;
• No wandering off to graze on new green grass and investigate treats that might have been dropped by other dogs training;
• He must walk at my side as we go and get the dumbbell; if he tries to forge ahead I mark with an “uh, uh” this and retreat a few steps back until he is at my side.
• We will heel past the dumbbell in the chair often; Walk from one part of the ring to where the DB is sitting outside of the ring in the chair.
• More work to help understanding of the command discrimination and how it differs from the utility signals:
  • STAND > DOWN > SIT
  • STAND > SIT> DOWN
  • Signals from heeling immediately followed by command discrimination
• Praise and reward for staying at my side as we move between exercises
• End of work jackpot is no longer to be outside of the ring on a chair but after the stay and get your leash, I bring him his jackpot helping him to see that he does not leave the ring for the big reward.

 
This week we have been working on the above changes in our training: when in the obedience ring we are working as a happy and confident team. No barking, no roaming around as our goal is to have communication and teamwork and not be distracted by the environment. Beckett has done surprisingly well doing what I have asked. This tells me that he did not know what I wanted since I never communicated or enforced this. REMEMBERING, THERE ARE NO BAD DOGS, ONLY BAD TRAINERS.
 
_______________________________________________________________________
 
Note: Petra won the 2020 National Obedience Championship. Watching Petra and her dogs is truly perfection in motion. To see some of her gorgeous runs visit her youtube channel. Her connection with her dogs and the joy they experience together is such an inspiration that has helped focus my training. She has helped me visualize  the importance of stay connected with my dog from the moment I come into the ring and to when I leave.

Each time I sit down to write about this topic I am stopped by my reflection of recently learning of people whose dogs LIVE in shock collars. I have written before about my choices in dog training and how upset it makes me to learn of these people I know whose dogs lives are shock collars or other aversive training behaviors.
 
Just as with COVID, there is great diversity in choices and beliefs in how people live their lives. Perhaps the hardest thing for me during this past year has been to accept the choices people make as to wearing masks, socially distancing, attending social gatherings and dog shows. My trouble ignoring dog training methods is just part of this challenge that I must face and accept.
 
I do realize that these people do love their dogs. Perhaps they just don’t understand or have not experienced the changes in their dogs if they wear or train with shock collars and other aversive training. Have they had that amazing relationship with their dog that is so fragile yet so beautiful? When I look at these dogs I often see changes in posture, the eyes and joy in working or greeting people.


So I have to continue to set a good example with my dogs to help others see there is a different way. I have to constantly remind myself that three of the best people I have trained with (Laura Romanik, Petra Ford and Susan Garrett) all use reinforcement-based training methods for correctness and have amazing dogs that are at the top of their game in competition and as an amazing pet. Their dogs are happy, confident and seem to enjoy interacting and training with their owners.

With all that said, phewwwwww….. it is gone…. Onto my latest challenges with my young dog (4 years old) Beckett. Videos below showing the change and how I trained with reinforcement for correctness.

We only showed once in obedience the past year due to COVID. It was a night show, with no practice match or exposure to this new environment with all the mask wearing, darkness and just having the show world seem turned upside down. Beckett could not do much of the Graduate Open exercise since there was so much that apparently was bothering him. He had no focus or idea why he was in the ring. For his second time in the obedience ring for his Open run, he could do a good job except he could not do command discrimination along the dark side of the back ring.

Shortly after the show Petra Ford had an amazing Fenzi webinar on “Pressure”. She talked about all the ways that dogs feel pressure while in the ring. She discussed in detail how this pressure effects her dogs especially her young dog, Zeal, that just won the AKC 2020 Obedience NOC.  I also had an opportunity to talk with Petra and learn that she felt the Command Discrimination exercise was one of the hardest for the dogs. A lot of pressure from behind, on the side, from the judge and in this show in the dark along a poorly lit back gate.

After learning more about all the ways that pressure can come into play at a show and how their behavior could fall apart due to it, I started working on exposing Beckett to pressure. See my section on “PRESSURE” with video progression of our work (pressure from behind, pressure of the judge – their position in the ring, walking into dog on recalls, heeling…..)

You will notice that the way Petra showed training in helping dogs to be comfortable with pressure involved carefully reading the dog to be sure they were not stressed at any time and not moving on until they were happy, confident and comfortable. Everything was to be fun with many positive rewards for correctness.

I also learned so much from Susan Garrett and have taken most of her online classes. Susan believes in game-based positive reinforcement and of course shaping. I have learned so much watching Susan so beautifully demonstrate her philosophy with her dogs and have found that games are a great way to build a dog’s skills in all exercises.

GAMES: Late in the day when we go into the doggie gym we do a lot of games and fun training which the dogs love and do not even seem to know we are really training to build fluency and confidence in the exercises as well as joy for the work. Three of the fun games I enjoy with the dogs are: seek for the treat and then come to front (seen in video below); put the scent articles in another room and have them find the scented article and search for the dumbbell and bring it to front from many angles.

Not only do the dogs seem to love these games but doing them together with each other adds an element of competition that is fun and seems to build their drive drive and love of the game.

The positively enriched training that I use is supported by science and uses reinforcement for correctness, games, shaping, preplanning, balance breaks, and assessment following training (review of video) of what was good and what needs improvement. Below is a summary of my REINFORCEMENT-BASED TRAINING.

A new training session begins with

• First, identifying what needs to be improved.
• Breaking this behavior down into its smallest pieces (SHAPING) – Helping the dog be successful while they learn to understand the behavior. One piece will be taught until the dog is performing it happily, confidently and correctly before we move on.
• Plan to video each training session: After each session look for what went well and what to improve and work on in the next session. Plan your next session
• Use…. THINK, PLAN, DO for each training session
• THINK: about what is to be trained.
• PLAN: the days training session(s).
• What will be done for reinforcement; when will reinforcement be given; what will be done when dog is not correct or does not meet the criteria for the level they are at; when will there be balance breaks.
• What will the balance break be? How long into training or what will indicate that a break is needed?
• How can this training be made into a GAME?
• DO: be sure to carefully read the dog to be sure they are not stressed or not understanding.

There are 2 new videos to show training that positively reinforces correctness.

I leave you with these wise words by Susan Garrett,
“The dog is a reflection of us as a dog trainer”
What does your dog say about you as a trainer?

Listen to the fascinating and informative podcast on Fenzi by Petra Ford on                                                              THE MAKING OF A NATIONAL CHAMPION.

​A few days before Christmas I took my almost 15 year old senior dog for his daily walk. Today was special since once again we could walk on the very short trail at our house. Kaffee seems to enjoy this short walk since he can go at his own pace, sniff, sniff, sniff and then trot up to me for a treat. After our 20 minute walk we went back to my house and into my office. About an hour later Kaffee tried to get up and was very unsteady on his feet, standing in an unusually wide stance for balance and had little coordination. Since this obviously was very scary for him he kept trying to fall me around the house and would not lie down or settle.
 
Symptoms had such a sudden onset that we feared it could be a stroke or perhaps worse. After 24 hours of this unbalanced behavior, my thoughts went to euthanasia. Fortunately it was Sunday and a holiday weekend so arrangements could not be made. The one vet who was willing to come to the house on Monday, had not one ounce of compassion and tried to tell me that her new service of stem cell therapy could perhaps help Kaffee. After I told her he was 15 years old and I had no desire to do this, (also knowing how expensive this treatment is), she then tried to sell me CBD and Cetyl M. I immediately knew I could not work with or ask her to help me with helping my very special senior dog, Kaffee.
 
When I emailed a friend of mine to let her know that I might have to euthanize Kaffee, she reminded me of the extreme vertigo that her Tibetan Terrier also 15 had had about 6 months ago. Her dogs symptoms were the tilted head, going in circles in the direction of the head tilt, sometimes falling over, loss of appetite and in general being unsteady on her feet. She told me that this condition was common in old dogs and was called Canine idiopathic vestibular disease, which is also sometimes called “old dog disease”
 
Kaffee clearly was exhibiting the same symptoms. On day 3 (Christmas Eve day 2019) of his sudden onset, he seemed a little better. It was as if he knew what our thoughts were and was telling us he was not ready to leave his family. Today also my son and his wife were coming to visit for Christmas. Kaffee was clearly better but now had the head tilt, the wide stance, difficulty with walking due to poor balance, and diminished appetite.
 
We researched vestibular treatment for dogs and found that Dramamine was used to help with the vertigo. We gave Kaffee several does but due to the drowsiness he did not seem greatly improved.
 
Several days later after ups and downs my thoughts again turned to euthanasia. We all wish our pets would quietly pass in their sleep but quality of life issues are very important to me and it seemed that clearly Kaffee had lost his joy of life even if it had greatly diminished as he aged.
 
I made an appointment with our very special vet that is an excellent diagnostician. I told the office staff we would like to bring Kaffee over for Dr. Flannery to see and to help educate us about his vestibular disease and we might have to euthanize him. Somehow as we drove over, I knew it was not time and that Kaffee would be coming home with us.
 
Dr. Flannery was excellent as she always is and told us that she wanted to treat his nausea that she knew he probably had due to his drooling; also to put him back on Dramamine.  Based on her knowledge of vestibular disease she told us that usually it takes several weeks before dogs vertigo and symptoms improve and it was not worth spending a lot of time trying to diagnosis his symptoms since no one really knows the cause of vestibular disease in old dogs. It more than likely has to do with the inner ear but could also be a stroke or brain tumor. It is best to just wait if possible to see if the 2 medications help…. Give him a few more days she told us and then decide about his quality of life.
 
In two weeks from the onset Kaffee was clearly improved. He was now again loving his food and always looking for treats; we could do a short walk down our drive way and street and the sparkle returned to his eyes. We were eternally grateful for the help, support, ethics and knowledge of Dr. Flannery.
 
It has now been 3 ½ weeks since the onset of symptoms and Kaffe has gradually improved returning to some of his old behaviors like barking at our Puli while his dinner is being prepared, barking while the dogs are in the doggie gym and wanting to be with us as we have our short close-up ball play. He goes out the doggie door on his own, is more balanced with less head tilt especially when walking down our street, sometimes trots out to the doggie run with the other dogs, jumps up over the threshold and sometimes seems senior dog frisky. Of course one of his favorites is his bedtime snack of chicken, blueberries and raspberries. And, he follows me everywhere.
 
Three times I seriously considered euthanize for Kaffee. It was as if he knew and quickly bounced back to slight improvement. My philosophical thinking throughout this is do we have a right to end a dogs life unless he is suffering? Are they not able to determine when their time is up and it is time to pass. Of course this would vary greatly due to their ability to get up, walk around, eat and show some peace with their current life… Euthanasia for me always comes with deep thinking about what is best for the dog. Today I am so grateful that Kaffee is still with us and still improves each day.

Kaffee remained on his very high quality raw food (Primal and Answers; goats milk kefir and turkey stock from Answers). He also resumed his supplements in the morning to help with his mobility and discomfort moving (1 TDC; DGP) and his probiotic. A few other supplements such as Curcuvet (Turmeric) and Nordic Naturals Omega were added back gradually.
 
Information on Canine Idiopathic Vestibular disease
 
Symptoms
·       Head tilt, which may be slight to extreme
·       Circling in one direction due to head tilt
·       Falling over
·       Lack of coordination
·       Loss of balance often with stumbling or staggering
·       Standing in unusually wide stance
·       Nausea and/or vomiting  
·       Rapid eye movement while awake
·       Choosing to sleep on the floor or other hard surfaces

The good news is that this condition, which is described by veterinarians as fairly common, typically disappears in a matter of days. The term idiopathic means that there is no known cause for why it occurs, which is most often the case. Often it has to do with an inner ear problem.
​
The good news is that this condition isn't dangerous or painful for your dog, although dizziness might cause him mild discomfort or motion sickness. The condition often clears up on its own within a couple of weeks, which is why vets typically adopt a "wait and see" approach. Nausea and vertigo can be controlled so it is important to make an appointment as soon as you notice these symptoms with your vet. DO NOT ALLOW them to convince you that testing is needed to determine the why of these symptoms. Again, most medical professionals agree that there is no known cause for this condition but is not uncommon in old dogs, thus the name, “old dog disease.” 

​This video below was done a few months before Kaffee turned 15. Sadly Kaffee's body wore out and in March 2020 we had to help him transition. We miss him very much. 

The second video is excellent and provides wonderful information on "Old Dog Vestibular" by a veterinarian. 

The decision to spay or neuter our dogs is very difficult. In the past early spay/neutering was highly recommended by veterinarians to be done at a very early age – often between 6 months to 1 years.  However research now indicates that early spay/neutering leads to health problems. We also know that neutering of large breeds predisposes these dogs to cancers and structural problems. The problem lies somewhere in the middle of drawing conclusions about health risks and predispositions for all dogs that have been spayed or neutered. The debate rages with breeders, owners and veterinarians vehemently defending their position either pro or con on this issue.
 
This blog post is prompted by my recent experience in considering and making a decision to neuter my 2 year old Border Collie. As I previously mentioned this decision is not taken lightly by most owners who are up to date on the latest health risks and issues of dogs. Issues include immunizations, diet, exercise, performance sports and now to spay or neuter.
 
Since my BC turned one year of age I always thought that I would never neuter him. I talked in depth with a good friend who has done extensive research and joined groups discussing this topic on whether to spay her young bitch. We have both read and read research, papers and talked to those whom we trusted to have done the same to see what conclusions they had come up with. Two veterinarians (one a very excellent holistic vet and the other a very excellent more traditional vet) both discussed with me their interpretations of the research. Both have stayed not only interested in this topic but also up to date. I have trusted their decisions and care for quite some time. Neither was willing to tell me to do or not to do neutering. The decision was now ultimately up to me.
 
When my BC turned 2 I became more serious about my consideration of neutering when a number of incidents came up. I will only mention one here that was most distressing since like all things, issues arouse controversy about the quality of training and perhaps corrections. My intent is not to go over these personal issues that I wanted to change but most importantly what was most disturbing to me was how my intact dog with his hormones was arousing other dogs when he walked by. I do a lot of leash walks in a lovely creek side park in Sedona, AZ and when we would walk by some other dogs they would get postured and act as if they could be aggressive. My dog was good about this especially when one was off leash and came charging up to us. However, this continued at dog events that I attended – a few dogs lunging at my dog when he walked by. This also  happened on occasion where I train that when we were in an enclosed a ring, a few other dogs who were intact would walk by and aggressively lunge at my dog. My young dog has managed it well but over the period of time this was happening he started putting up his hackles and acting like he wanted to protect himself. I worked very hard to keep him calm and looking at or being triggered by these dogs but I did not like this need to carefully monitor all situations.
 
I have other male neutered  dogs and a female spayed and we often go on lovely off leash hikes in the forest. I have never had a problem with dog aggression from other dogs or my dogs and have not had to worry about this. I did not want to now have to worry and put fear into my young dog every time we were hiking and another dog approached. I had talked to other people where their un-neutered dog also triggered such behavior in other dogs even at age 4; neutering the dog helped this problem to stop. This was one of several issues that I was not happy about.
 
So after spending many months researching, discussing and struggling with this decision, I decided to move forward to have my young BC neutered. He was done 3 weeks ago and has done well.
 
So what prompted me to write this blog post – I received a very disturbing email from a not to be named individual who as much as told me that she was very disappointed that I neutered this dog and surprised that I would put my dog at risk for all the health issues associated with neutering despite the fact I waited until he was over 2 years old. She also mentioned that hormones have many benefits for tissue health, repair and strength and that she hoped this dog would continue to be healthy and happy.
 
I was deeply hurt by this especially since I have spent so much time learning and reading about how to keep my dogs healthy with the best food, exercise, performance sports and working out to build their core strength in their doggie gym. How can one not consider the great importance in each of these things in keeping a dog healthy, fit and having a happy, productive and long life. Where were her research papers she referred to that supported her position?
 
MY FINDINGS….
Here’s a quick science-based overview of what we know today:
·       Early neutering of dogs doubles the chance of hip dysplasia (1)
·       Early neutering increases joint disorders in dogs by four times (2)
·       Neutering dogs triples the risk of several joint problems in GSDs (3)
·       Neutering decreases longevity in Rottweilers (4)
·       Neutering increases a chance of cancer in dogs (5)
 
Taken from “Science of Pros and Cons of Neutering or Spaying your Dog” by Jenica Johnson, MSc, January 2018.
https://topdogtips.com/pros-and-cons-of-spaying-your-dog/#References
 
I highly recommend reading this excellent article that presents current science and research on what we have learned about the pro and cons of spay and neutering.
 
The word, “science” comes up…. A word that is very important when we talk about research. For those of us who have been scientists we know that research studies can be planned and conducted to find whatever the researchers would like to see in the findings. There needs to be unbiased researchers with control and experimental groups that take into account the generalizability of the population selected.
 
Two very excellent articles are written by Vick Spain, DVM, PhD who after working in veterinary practice in the 1990s decided to pursue a PhD in epidemiology at Cornell University. After spending 4 years leading research at Cornell on the long-term risks and benefits of pediatric neutering and publishing his findings in reputable peer-reviewd journals, he writes about his conclusions and finding about the research being done and reported in the last few years on spay/neutering. I refer you to 2 excellent articles by Dr. Spain
 
“Decoding Spay/Neuter Research Part 1”, April 12, 2017
https://www.aspcapro.org/blog/2017/04/12/decoding-spayneuter-research-part-1

“Decoding Spay/Neuter Research Part 2” May 17, 2017
https://www.aspcapro.org/blog/2017/05/17/decoding-spayneuter-research-part-2
 
Summarizing Dr. Spain’s findings
“Unfortunately, most of the studies from the last couple of years were subject to serious flaws that make the findings unreliable for understanding the risks and benefits of neutering dogs. To complicate matters, the subsequent social media coverage came dangerously close to being fake news by cherry-picking findings that would support an anti-neuter perspective and ignoring the other findings.”
 
“The studies we discussed in the first part of this series did not collect data on reason for neuter, and made little attempt to assess which relationships could be explained by a reason that is not cause-and-effect. As a result, readers are left with the false impression that all the outcomes were caused by the choice to neuter (or choice to neuter at a particular age). They are also left with the implication—likely incorrect, in some cases—that the health outcomes could be averted by delaying or avoiding neutering. Unfortunately, in these studies, it is nearly impossible to tease out which of the relationships are cause-and-effect and which aren’t.”
 
“To compound the limitations of these studies, reports on them cherry-picked findings that supported an anti-neuter perspective…
These reports either did not mention the conditions that were reduced with neutering, or they only mentioned those findings near the end of the story, long after many social media readers would have stopped reading. And the reports certainly didn’t cover any of the studies’ limitations. While technically accurate, these reports appeared to be intentionally misleading and, as a result, verging on fake news.”
From my latest review of the literature I have to totally agree with scientists and researchers such as Dr. Spain and others that this topic is very important and we need more conclusive evidence on how to view this procedure and findings we can believe on the pros and cons of spay/neutering that we can believe and use to help us make our decisions.
 
I also recommend a review of the research done by Dr. Jean Dodds despite the date of 2015.
​“Revisiting Spay/Neutering of Dogs and Cats”
https://drjeandoddspethealthresource.tumblr.com/post/125096705031/spay-neuter-dog-cat#.Wz_VCxJKhBx

Very interesting new research article on neutering based on breed. ADDED 8/2021

 
DISCLAIMER: This writing reflects my 10-year experience with my dogs and several other friend’s dogs that do not want to eat their food. This is not meant to be a treatment but only what I have learned about what has helped my dogs and the dogs I have worked with to help them resume eating.
NOTE: One of the most important first steps is to identify the reason for the dog not eating such as illness.  It is important to first see your vet to discuss underlying conditions that could be causing the anorexia.
 

We love our dogs and want them to be healthy so when they refuse to eat, we search for a food that they might like and eat – raw food, canned food, home cooked food, kibble, combinations of food – hoping that something will be appetizing to them. We often start cooking things like chicken and rice for them and may even hand feed them to encourage them to eat, only to find that soon that too does not work and they again refuse food.
 
My Puli never liked eating from the time he was a very young puppy. Having had Border Collies that have great appetites and love food and whatever fruits or veggies I add it was a source of worry and concern to me over why my, Puli, Ziggy would not eat.  Additionally, he would occasionally vomit first thing in the morning when he got up.
 
I took him to the vet who suggested we do and abdominal ultrasound to see if there was a health issue. The ultrasound was normal and happily did not reveal an illness or problem that might be causing the anorexia. So I continued with whatever I could including hand feeding, going for a walk, feeding on the trail, feeding when we got home when he hopefully would be more hungry.
 
Then one day a friend suggested Dogzymes – a digestive enhancer from Natures Farmacy. I had never known about probiotics or digestive enhancers. This was over 9 years ago when probiotics were not as widely used and written about on their great value for gut health. Dogzymes Digstive Enhancer has 5 beneficial bacteria types and 6 enzymes making it an excellent digestive supplement to add to the dog’s food.
 
I was amazed to find that Ziggy started showing interest in food and within a month was eating happily and hungrily on his own.
 
Over 30 years ago, Natures Farmacy was the first to market organic, high-potency probiotics for dogs. Since then they have expanded their line of products but have not lost their excellent customer service. I have called them when one of my dogs had diarrhea, an upset stomach or had to be on an antibiotic and their friendly representative would tell me how to use and increase the digestive enhancer as well as how to support the dogs digestive system when they travel or are away for shows.
 
Since then I have learned about 2 other excellent products from Natures Farmacy: Probiotics Max and Probiotics Paste. Probiotics Max is what I now have Ziggy on since I felt after a few years he needed the support of more probiotics and enzymes. Probiotics Max contains 8 strains of beneficial bacteria and 10 difference enzymes with a 6.8 billion colony forming unit. Max is excellent for soothing an overactive immune system and to support times of hard work, old age and stress. The Probiotics Paste is excellent for times of gastrointestinal stress and antibiotic treatment or travel. 
 
While this information on the digestive enhancers and probiotics from Natures Farmacy may seem like an advertisement for the company, I have never found a more effective product for dogs that will not eat and DO NOT have an underlying illness or medical problem. Today I use VetriScience probiotics twice a day for my 3 Border Collies but often use Dogzymes when we travel or if the dogs get an upset stomach. When using probiotics it is very important to research the company to be sure that their product does contain what they claim it contains in an active form. Also, dogs need a totally different set of bacteria and enzymes for their gut then what humans do.
 
While the digestive enhancer and probiotics has greatly helped Ziggy and a few other dogs that I have recommended this to, there are other considerations.  After refusing food for some time, the dogs seem to get a fear of what is being put down for breakfast or dinner. They smell the food and look at it and assume they will not like what is being offered. What I have found that in the time of improving their digestive system and gut health it is important to find a new food with a new smell and different texture. For example, if Ziggy had been eating raw food, I would change the protein source to a new meat protein and change the texture to perhaps a freeze dried or dehydrated food. This not only looks and smells differently but also has a new texture. This has worked quite well.
 
Additionally, while the digestive enhancer is excellent, I have found that it is not a perfect solution. Ziggy and other dogs seem to be willing to eat a new food for some time, perhaps a few weeks, and then suddenly turn up their noses to the same food they have been happily eating. These dogs seem to need a frequent change in their food. Either I will routinely change both the protein and the texture or I often wait until Ziggy lets me know he needs a change. For example, I may feed a little raw mixed in with freeze dried. Then move to only raw. Then to change the texture again, move back to only the freeze dried. I have been known to use and add kibble just for variety. And, yes I realize the controversy over adding kibble to a raw diet.  

Another appetizer that I frequently use especially in the morning when their appetite may seem to be less, is that I add a little sprinkle of their favorite treat over the food. I notice how Ziggy will smell this treat to be sure it is one he approves. :-)
 
I am always looking for the best food source for my dogs and while I cannot always find the quality of the food like Primal, I have found that companies such as Stella and Chewy and Only Natural Pet have some excellent raw freeze dried and dehydrated foods. The texture, look and smell are different enough to add that variety that I am looking for to keep Ziggy’s appetite up.
 
Ziggy does still occasionally vomit yellow foam in the early morning. For some dogs an empty stomach can lead to bile reflux. Reducing the time between meals helps as it has with Ziggy. I give Ziggy about a tablespoon of kibble at bedtime which seems to greatly help. Other people have found other bedtime snacks to also be effective.
 
While I have just been writing about my anorexia journey with my Puli, I have had other people who have had very similar issues not only add the digestive enhancer to the diet with excellent results but have also found the need to rotate and change the food source and texture. I have also had other dogs who have lost their appetite for other reasons and working with the probiotic, new and different foods and textures has seemed to help them past this anorexic period. I had a Puli many years ago who would not eat due to chemotherapy. I found that the only food he liked and would eat was Ziwi Peaks freeze dried which is also a complete and balanced food. I have had other dogs that I work with that like Ziwi Peaks freeze dried pieces when they would not eat. Dogs seem to really like it. Perhaps the tiny pieces seem more like treats to them than food. 
 
Some of my favorite sources:
 
Natures Farmacy: 
Primal: 
Only Natural Pet: 
Ziwi Peaks: Ziwi Peaks is an excellent food made in New Zealand and also has excellent canned food. All food made in New Zeakand from free range farms. 
Stella and Chewies: 
 

 
If you have been following my blog and web site you will know Kaffee. On January 7, 2018 Kaffee turned 13 and he is still walking daily with me, hiking on trails with the other dogs and friends for 1-2 hour walks, taking herding lessons and still competing in herding competitions. I feel so grateful that Kaffee is still well and fit at age 13. In this writing I would like to share some of the things that I have done to keep Kaffee active, healthy and happy.
 
First, Kaffee has been an amazing partner. We have gone on a wonderful journey together in these 13 years: competing in agility; traveling a great deal for us to learn about herding and competing where I put all his novice herding titles on him in AKC and AHBA. We then moved to obedience where he  successfully competed getting 20 High in Trials, 22 High Combined recognitions and even more amazing was his OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion) that he got a few years ago. After his OTCH Kaffee (age 11) Kaffee went back to herding. I wanted him to not run as much to help keep in sound and to understand the finesse of driving. Kaffee then started training and showing with Dawna Sims who is an amazing trainer. Dawna put all of Kaffee’s open and advanced titles on him including his AHBA HTCH (Herding Trial Champion). Since he is sound and still enjoys herding sheep (and I enjoy watching him so much) he continues to take his sheep herding lesson and compete in AKC and AHBA Advanced. Many times he places and even will win his class.
 
Our life was full of travel and adventures, exploring trails in Sedona and Flagstaff and many special times to remember in our pictures.
 
Reflecting back on Kaffee’s life in the past and present here are a few things that stand out that have helped preserve his health, soundness and fitness.

1. The very best nutrition possible.
2. Daily exercise to help keep his endurance.
3. Helping to prevent cognitive decline by finding ways for him to keep his mind active and always learning.
4. Keeping him fit with exercises designed to strengthen his core, keep his muscles strong in his front and rear, help him with his balance and stability
5. And most importantly, NEVER THINKING HE IS TOO OLD to do what the other younger Border Collies in the family do.

 
BEST NUTRITION AND CANINE NUTRIGENOMICS
I highly recommend Dr. Jean Dodds and Diana Laverdure’s excellent book, Canine Nutrigenomics where much of my new knowledge has come from. In this amazing book Dr. Dodds writes how our dogs are born with 21,000 genes. While we cannot do much to change these genes there is another layer of genes called the epigenome that surrounds our DNA and the proteins attached. From extensive research we now know that food communicates with our cells and can control these genes. You will learn important and valuable information in Canine Nutrigenomics on how food can change your dogs health and wellness and prevent many of the inflammation based conditions that are so prevalent in our animals such as allergies, arthritis, autoimmune disease, cancer, cognitive issues, GI disorder and many more.
 
I have been feeding a raw diet to my dogs for many years. However after taking 2 very extensive nutrition courses (one from Dogs Naturally and more recently from Dr. Jean Dodds and Diana Laverdure) I have modified the not only the quality of the raw food but also added functional canine superfoods avoiding foods that can lead to inflammation and the many diseases that are now prevalent in dogs.
 
These changes include:

• Meat from grass fed animals with no antibiotics, steroids, hormones and the highest quality wholesome ingredients including 100% USDA edible-grade meats and certified organic produce.
• Addition of organic produce daily to their diet such as the powerful antioxidant organic blueberries and nutrient dense superfoods such as watercress. Other superfoods come from fruits and vegetables such as the cruciferous vegetables broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, cabbage and bok choy. Leafy green vegetables are excellent and my dogs get one leafy green veggie with each meal.
• We know that fresh (organic when possible) fruits are important such as apples, bananas, berries and cantaloupe.
• The importance of functional fats and oils such as the addition of omega 3 fatty acids and coconut oil to a dogs diet.
• A senior dog has special needs such as preventing cognitive decline and coconut oil has the most amazing scientifically proven ability to improve brain function in older dogs (page 163, Canine Nutrigenomics). Antioxidents also are very beneficial for counteracting the effects of free radicals on the brain.
• Supplements to support canine performance and stamina and possible system weaknesses identified by blood work.
• Variety and rotation of all the food groups to maintain balance. I rotate their meat every 3-4 weeks and feed seasonal veggies.

Again, I recommend Dr. Dodds book for detailed and fascinating information on not only how to keep your dog healthy but also how to change conditions that your dog might be experiencing such as allergies and GI problems.
 
DAILY EXERCISE
Daily walking as a form of excellent exercise is not only important and beneficial for humans but also for their canine partners. Dogs loose muscle strength as they age especially in their hind end. They also loose endurance, change of gait and balance, flexibility and stability. I have tried to be aware of this and daily do some form of exercise with Kaffe. At least 6 days a week Kaffee goes for either a 30 minute walk where we live or for a trail hike. We also go regularly to his doggie gym almost every day. You can see the video below of the advanced work he does on balance discs to help keep him fit.
 
On the past we were able to hike on beautiful forest service trails behind my house several days a week; we also go to Northern Arizona to hike on lovely trails. We were still going 1-2 times a week for walks or runs on the wooded trails. Recently the 3 Border Collies got to enjoy some light snow on these same trails. Kaffee loves the snow as do all the dogs and just runs and run. The snow brings the puppy inside out.
 
PREVENTING COGNITIVE DECLINE and DYSFUNCTION
Most dogs begin to show signs of cognitive decline by age 11 and 12. You will begin to notice that they behave differently than they did when they were younger. Some changes may be physical due to decreases in hearing and sight and others may be due to health such as arthritis. Still we see definite changes in their ability to process information, learn, remember and often we see disorientation. 
 
There are some things that can be done to help your aging senior dog related to diet, exercise, keeping a routine schedule, and finding ways for them to use their mind.
 
Here are a few things I have done with Kaffee.
 
Diet: Dr. Jean Dodds in her Canine Nutrigenomics book has an excellent section on “Nutritional Support for the Aging Canine Brain” (page 162). I again recommend her book but a few of the recommendations that I use with Kaffee and most of my dogs include:

• A diet rich in antioxidants to counteract the effects of free radials on the brain. Vitamins E and C plus the addition of fruits and vegetables are excellent. Blueberries are one of the best additions to the diet.
• Coconut oil has the amazing scientifically proven ability to improve brain function in older dogs (p. 163).
• Milk Thistle (reference p. 165-166). All my dogs receive Milk Thistle for one week a month

 
Work on Balance Discs: The video below shows the advanced work that Kaffee has progressed to on the balance discs. This work involving not only balance but also correct placement of front and hind legs encourages the use of his mind and translating it to his body. Kaffee loves his balance disc work and for his age has excellent balance. I believe this has some of the greatest impact on his cognition.
 
Activity: Kaffee has all of his herding titles but he still continues to take herding lessons regularly and compete in one class at each trial in 2 locations that he is familiar with. He seems to be so proud of himself when he herds the sheep and really enjoys this. This is another way he is being asked to use his mind and process information.
 
We have decreased the amount of time he herds to one run in a lesson and trial, only sheep and only trialing in 2 places that he is familiar with. He has a chance to practice his exercises in the trials helping to eliminate any confusion he might experience.
 
Fitness: As mentioned earlier Kaffee goes on daily walks with me for 30 minutes with some on and off leash. We also go hiking in Flagstaff 1-2 days a week on easy terrain. I am not sure that our hikes where I live would be suitable for him since it involves some climbing and maneuvering rocks but our hikes in Flagstaff seem to be perfect.
 
While I want to keep Kaffee as fit and active as possible I also realize that his activities need to be cut back to address what he is telling me about his body and what he can do. I watch him carefully every evening when he gets up to see if he is stiff or having trouble moving.
 
Yes, he still herds but less than a year ago. He comes out of the herding rings quite proud of himself. He got to spend his 13th birthday in an AHBA  herding trial. He runs Advanced Level III herding and while he is slower than many of the dogs, he is slow and steady and always seems to qualify with lovely scores. Below is the video of his 13th birthday AHBA L# herding run where he got a 97 out of 100 points. He also won the raffle on his birthday which is the picture shown above.

The second video is of how Kaffee stays strong and sound by working out in his doggie gym on balance discs several days a week.
 
 
Resources
AVMA: Caring for an Older Pet
https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Caring-for-an-Older-Pet-FAQs.aspx