ARA) – With about three-quarters of the nation’s population taking at least one prescribed medication, it’s no secret that our bodies need help to be healthy. Heart disease, insomnia, depression and other diseases have reached epidemic levels.

Heart disease has almost quadrupled since 2000. Nearly 80 million people in the United States have heart disease, up from 22 million. More than 70 million people in the United States suffer from insomnia, a number that has stayed the same for a number of years. Roughly 18 million adults in the United States suffer from depression. Ten times more people suffer from major depression now compared to 60 years ago.

Fortunately drugs like Lipitor, Ambien and Zoloft have improved our quality of life and allow people to live longer, healthier lives.Lipitor is used to lower the amount of bad cholesterol, and Ambien is used for people with insomnia to help them sleep better. Zoloft is an antidepressant, but it’s also used to help obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia and post-traumatic stress disorder.

These valuable drugs don’t happen by themselves. And often, the frontline of drug discovery and ultimately development begins with a relatively unknown profession: veterinary pathology. These scientists are part of a team that not only finds the drugs that keep us healthy; they also keep thousands of unsafe drugs from ever hitting the drug store shelves.

These individuals are uniquely aware of animals’ and humans’ responses to drugs, because to know the animal body makes it easy to know the human body.

Ricardo Ochoa, a veterinary pathologist and pharmaceutical consultant, says veterinary pathologists have helped keep thousands of compounds that could have been harmful to humans from getting into development. Ochoa has worked extensively in the pharmaceutical industry discovering and developing drugs as a drug development scientist.

“People don’t realize that most of the compounds that we start working with actually don’t make it,” adds Ochoa. “Veterinary pathologists are guardians of the safety of compounds, and ultimately, of the greater population. The odds of becoming a winner in American Idol are better than getting a compound to the market.”

Hundreds of processes go into producing a therapeutic drug. Veterinary pathologists have proved to be invaluable assets in the pharmaceutical industry, but there is currently a shortage in the pipeline that could hinder future pharmaceutical development. Currently there are approximately 1,500 licensed veterinary pathologists – and only a small percentage in the pharmaceutical industry.

Ochoa says that the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) is working hard to ensure that there will be sufficient veterinary pathologists to continue to serve humanity. For more information on the profession, and other areas of public health served by veterinary pathologists, go to http://www.acvp.org . And the next time you pop a pill, quietly thank a veterinary pathologist.

(NewsUSA) – Spring and summer plants provide color and scent, but they can also mean upset stomachs for the family pet.

As the growing months hit, homeowners enjoy watching their garden flowers bloom. But according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA),common plants like lilies, sago palms, tulips, azaleas and oleander can poison Duke or Lassie.

Americans don’t have to choose between keeping a dog or planting flower pots. Yes, more than 700 plants cause toxic symptoms, ranging from mild nausea to death, in animals.

But homeowners can put poisonous house plants, like lilies and ferns, out of pets’ reach. High tables or window ledges can keep dogs from ingesting the roses, while hanging baskets stop cats from frisking in fronds.

Animals need their exercise. While some cats stay inside, locking the dog indoors will only cause behavior problems.

Canines and landscaping can co-exist. In outdoor areas, fencing keeps animals away from gardens, where everyday food plants like corn and tomatoes can poison pets.

For owners who cannot install wood or wire fences, or who want to see their landscaping without peering through wooden slats, electronic pet-containment systems provide a great option.

One system, Invisible Fence Brand Outdoor Solutions, uses a concealed wire to keep animals within safe areas. A professional installs the wire around the property line. The wire can also block off danger zones like gardens, pools and driveways.

The homeowner puts a transmitter in an out-of-the-way location. The transmitter sends radio signals to a collar. When Rover approaches the azaleas, his collar beeps a small warning. Thanks to a certified training program, Rover knows not to go near the flower beds.

The Invisible Fence Brand can be laid across pavement, water and rocky terrain. It allows avid gardeners and landscapers to enjoy their favorite summer plants without worrying about their animals’ health. In turn, cats and dogs can enjoy fresh air and exercise in safety.

For more information about the Invisible Fence Brand, visit www.invisiblefence.com.

(NewsUSA) – While many people are aware of how their own lifestyle affects the planet, they may be surprised to learn how much of an environmental “paw print” their four-legged family members are leaving behind.

According to Anthony Zolezzi, eco-entrepreneur and author of “How Dog Food Saved the Earth,” there are many “green” changes you can make in and around your home to safeguard your pet’s diet and environment.

“When it comes to saving our planet, the focus has always been on our own carbon footprint -; but I would challenge you further to look at the carbon “paw print” your family pets are leaving behind, and examine their role in protecting our Earth from excessive pollution,” said Zolezzi.

Through Zolezzi’s work, which involves promoting social responsibility and green programs, he got involved with launching one of the first pet foods on the market with U.S. source-verified meat and poultry -; Pet Promise.

“When we purchase natural and organic products from family farmers who support sustainable agriculture, we also support a cleaner environment. Our pets can help make a difference when we feed them food products sourced from these same family farms,” said Zolezzi.

The sale of Pet Promise has helped eliminate more than 88 million doses of antibiotics in the food chain and 15 million doses of artificial growth hormones fed to cattle. Through this endeavor, Zolezzi and his team have helped support more than 1,500 U.S. family farmers who are committed to the humane treatment of animals and using natural and sustainable methods to protect the environment. For more information, visit www.PetPromiseInc.com.

Here are some additional tips to help you keep your pet’s environment chemical-free and green:

* Stay off the lawn. Keep your animals away from the lawn or garden when treating them with fertilizers, pesticides or insecticides until it dries completely.

* Don’t clean house and play fetch. Never allow your pet access to areas you are cleaning. Some cleaners might only cause a mild upset stomach, but others could cause severe burns of the tongue, mouth and stomach.

* Keep the garage clean. Store all automotive products such as oil, gas and antifreeze in areas away from pets. Just one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly to a 7-pound cat, and less than one tablespoon can be lethal to a 20-pound dog.

How to Maintain a Clean and Healthy Pet-friendly Lifestyle

(ARA) – For anyone that owns a pet, you know that they are part of the family. But even though they bring lots of joy, they can also cause a bit of strife. They make messes, shed an astounding amount of fur, can be expensive and simply make life a bit more hectic.

“Like with any relationship, there are pros and cons. And because they are amazing creatures that give an incredible amount of love, they are worth the time, energy and expense that it takes to care for them,” comments Charlotte Reed, pet expert and author of “The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette.” As an owner of three dogs, three cats and one parrot, she knows both the joys and stress that pets can cause.

“The modern pet owner considers pets one of their children, but they need to be socially responsible as well. There are some things that should to be considered in order for your pet to be a positive part of your life without taking it over. Pet etiquette or rather petiquette, is about understanding that good behavior has to be practiced at both ends of the leash.”

* It is good manners to have a clean pet?

One of the first issues that many pet owners have with their pets is that they can be very messy. They spill food, ravage furniture, and leave fur everywhere and can be smelly. But just because you have a pet doesn’t mean you should let your house go.
“My cats love to curl up by my printer and computer because they give off heat. The hair sticks to the static and collects fast. For fast cleanups, seek out vacuums that are known to be tough on pet hair.”

The vacuum Reed recommends for pet owners is the Dyson DC16 Animal handheld vacuum. Specially designed for pet hair pickup with a motorized brush bar and twice the suction power of other handhelds, Reed says “it’s great for quick cleanups for an upcoming date, family dinner or any unexpected visitors. I even use it in my car.”

To eliminate odors, Reed advises to wash or groom your dogs monthly. If you find it difficult to give your cat a bath, brush your pet at least once a week to remove loose hair and debris from the feline coat. Additionally, scoop feline litter boxes daily. And for dogs, she says to train them to use one area outdoors so that waste is confined — that area should be cleaned regularly. For senior, ill or toy dogs that use indoor potty areas, she recommends changing their papers daily. Also, cleaning pet beds and toys regularly — at least once a month — also contribute to a healthier pet and tidier home.

* Traveling with furry friends can be fun.

More people travel with their pets than ever before, whether it’s in the car to run errands or on a plane for a vacation. All pets can be excellent travel companions with the right expectations and planning.

“Always call ahead to where you are staying to verify their pet policy. Bring plenty of food, supplies and toys so that your pet feels comfortable. Try to keep your pet on his regular food and exercise schedule to eliminate stress for both of you. And make sure that your pet practices its best obedience,” says Reed.

Keep cleanup items like an odor eliminator and stain remover on hand in case there is an accident in the car or at your hotel. Be prepared to replace or repair any items destroyed by your pet.

If your pet is well-behaved, only ask a close family member or friend, if you can bring your pet along for a visit. If your host declines, do not be offended. Find a professional pet sitter or kennel by contacting your veterinarian, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Pet Sitter International or the American Boarding Kennel Association. Confirm that the animal professional is bonded and insured and has at least three references.

* You can love your pet, but keep a balanced life.

You might love your little critter, but not everyone wants to hear every detail about your pet, especially a date. Practicing petiquette is an important part of the modern pet owner’s life. Balance is important to understand and implement at work and at home.

For example, one picture of your pet on your desk or in your wallet is perfectly fine. But make sure that your office doesn’t become a shrine to your furry companion. Not everyone shares your enthusiasm and subtlety is a virtue every pet owner must have.

Besides keeping your home clean, it’s important to keep your clothes clean as well. “There’s no need to go to work looking like your cat or dog slept on your clothes all night. A quick swoop with a vacuum or sticky roller should do the trick,” adds Reed.

For more pet tips, please visit www.missfidomanners.com. And for more information about the Dyson DC16 Animal, please visit http://www.dyson.com . Charlotte’s book, “The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette,” is available everywhere books are sold.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

How to Create a Pet-friendly Bath That You’ll Both Enjoy

(ARA) – Dogs and cats and turtles, oh my! With more than 377 million pets in the United States, Americans are becoming increasingly enamored with their “fur kids.” According to a recent consumer survey, 47 percent of American pet owners bathe their pets in their home bathtub or shower and 31 percent bathe their pets monthly, while 21 percent bathe them weekly.

“While most pet owners bathe their pets in their tub or shower, our research also showed that among those who don’t, more than 40 percent have considered bathing their household pets in these spots,” says Jack Suvak, Moen’s director of marketing research.

With this flurry of furry activity, if you are one of the many American pet owners that utilizes your personal bathing space for yourself as well as your precious pet, it’s a good idea to make a few simple updates to your bath to make it Fido-friendly.

Splish Splash, Pets in the Bath
First, take preventative measures. Make sure your bathing surface is non-skid by applying tread strips or a bath mat to the bottom of the tub. Protect your plumbing from fur and hair clogs by installing a simple drain screen.

Next, think about installing a handheld showerhead. New Inspire multi-setting handheld showerheads from Moen offer a superior showering experience for pets and pet owners alike. Available in three-, five- and seven-setting models, Inspire’s spray selector makes it easy to move from one setting to another, even when hands are wet or soapy. Best of all, Inspire handheld showerheads are easy to install and available at Lowe’s stores nationwide — offering fast set-up for Fido’s bath.

Don’t know what to do with all of your pet supplies? Adding a shower bench with storage to your bathroom is not only convenient for storing your pet shampoo, brushes and treats for easy access, but it’ll also be easier on your back when washing your pet.

After bathing Fido, does he try to jump out of the tub before drying off? Installing a curved shower rod may be the answer to keep you and your bathroom dry while allowing Fido to shake off in the shower. The line of Curved Shower Rods from Inspirations by Moen are heavy-duty, fixed- or adjustable-length rods feature a graceful curve that provides up to seven and a half additional inches of showering space. Easy to install and available in today’s most popular finishes, you and your pet will feel like you’re in an oversized, luxury shower.

Once you have the bathing process down, get some dry ideas. Keep two sets of towels handy — one for you and one for your pet. Specialty pet drying towels absorb up to 10 times their weight in water, keeping your dog, and the surfaces in your bathroom, dry. For a more high-tech option for animals with thick coats, consider using a pet dryer. Pet dryers offer a sensible alternative to standard hairdryers that can damage animals’ coats or cause burns, using less heat and more air volume to quickly and safely dry your pet.

By setting up your bathroom and shower to keep both man and man’s best friend clean, you will both be fetching in no time.

For more information on Moen’s line of Inspire showerheads or other Moen products, visit www.moen.com or call (800) BUY-MOEN.

Cary, NC – On February 23, 2008, Best Friend Pet Adoption (BFPA) volunteers, foster families, and adopted dogs and puppies will gather to celebrate one litter’s first birthday and the friendships that have resulted from a mutual love for dogs. The birthday celebration will take place at 1:00 p.m., at Furry Feet Retreat in Cary.

BFPA’s community outreach is generally limited to more formal events like dog and cat rescue events. The upcoming birthday party is a new way for BFPA volunteers to reach out to current adoptive families by getting feedback on how the dogs are doing one year after adoption. According to Millie, “Being a rescue group isn’t just about finding homes for pets. It goes a lot deeper than that. These pets truly have become their owners’ best friends…I think the dogs return the favor by rescuing us in their own little ways.” The hope this weekend is for lifelong friendships and a multitude of future birthday celebrations as the BFPA family continues to grow in size.

Read More:CarolinaNewsWire