Hello Friend,

A Big Hi to you and the purring or barking members of your family.

As most of you know, my working situation has dramatically changed, and I am spending a tonne more time at home.

My pets seem to like it, and wherever I go there is an animal..

At night my older cat Cleo stalks me in the bathroom, sleeps by my head, and then bats my head to wake me up in the morning.

My newest older cat Gussie then greets me downstairs...as I sit on the couch writing this newsletter, she is purring in my ear on the back of the couch..

Lewis ( the big black dog) is now on one side of the couch, while my newest dog Jessie is on the other..

I am feeling somewhat like Dr Doolittle..but he was able to practice as he wisely chose not to offend members of his Veterinary Association :-)

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They said it was safe..
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Last year I was at a large un-named Pet Supply store in Spokane doing some research on Alternate products.

I asked about what I could use for Flea control on my cat.

The sales clerk showed me a product containing high doses of Tea Tree oil..

Which is potentially VERY toxic to cats, and small dogs.

I informed the oh so helpful salesperson that it is NEVER safe to use on cats, especially as a spray..

She at first challenged me, until I used the
'I am a Veterinarian' card, and then proceeded to agree with me..

Here is an abstract documenting some of the toxicity:

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Toxicity of melaleuca oil and related essential oils applied topically on dogs and cats.
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Villar D, Knight MJ, Hansen SR, Buck WB.

National Animal Poison Control Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 61801.
Abstract

Cases of melaleuca oil toxicosis have been reported by veterinarians to the National Animal Poison Control Center when the oil was applied dermally to dogs and cats. In most cases, the oil was used to treat dermatologic conditions at inappropriate high doses. The typical signs observed were depression, weakness, incoordination and muscle tremors. The active ingredients of commercial melaleuca oil are predominantly cyclic terpenes. Treatment of clinical signs and supportive care has been sufficient to achieve recovery without sequelae within 2-3 d.

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P.S. There is a TONNE of conflicting information on the Internet about what is Safe and Natural.

So WHERE do you go?

As you can see from my experience, a Pet Supply Store is not always the best spot.

I have compiled the largest compilation of safe, natural and effective at home remedies and solutions in one spot.

It's a great resource, and for trying in out you can get a DVD sent to your house for $5.97

Go here for information you can trust:

http://www.theonlinevet.com/innercircle.php