Does anyone have any personal recommendations for a hotel / apartment in Barcelona and Sitges for a family of 4. Children aged 6 and 4. Thanks, Mike.

Response:

serve.co.uk> writes >Does anyone have any personal recommendations for a hotel / apartment in >Barcelona and Sitges for a family of 4. Children aged 6 and 4.

We stayed at the Antemare in Sitges last year. http://www.antemare.com/ingles/ It’s modern, reasonably plush, in a nice quiet position just off the sea front.  It’s a short walk into the town centre area with most of the restaurants – just enough to build up an appetite. The list rate is quite expensive but there are offers on their web site and – when we booked, at least – on http://www.laterooms.com — UK Aromatherapy Information and Products: http://www.celtic-flame.co.uk

Response:

>14 Jul 02 >Are the roads between Ardmore, County Waterford and Avoca, County Wicklow >decent enough for one to drive comfortably in one day between the two? Have >made B&B reservations at both places (first night in Ardmore, next in Avoca) >and now wonder if I should stop over between the two?  Time is rather tight >here so if I can do it in one day, I would rather.  Nan > It’s 175 km, just under three hours of driving according to Autoroute. > —

3 hours!!!???? Not on those roads. Irish roads are very narrow and as such speed is generaly restricted. I would say nearer to 4 esp if your behind a coach load of tourist going to BallyK

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> >14 Jul 02 > >Are the roads between Ardmore, County Waterford and Avoca, County Wicklow > >decent enough for one to drive comfortably in one day between the two? >Have > >made B&B reservations at both places (first night in Ardmore, next in >Avoca) > >and now wonder if I should stop over between the two?  Time is rather >tight > >here so if I can do it in one day, I would rather.  Nan > It’s 175 km, just under three hours of driving according to Autoroute. > — >3 hours!!!???? >Not on those roads. Irish roads are very narrow and as such speed is >generaly restricted. I would say nearer to 4 esp if your behind a coach load >of tourist going to BallyK

I’d give it longer — not because of the road, but because of the stops you might want to make. – Dungarvan, just because it’s nice – Waterford, for "the glass", for Reginald’s Tower, for its nice little civic museum – New Ross to see the Dunbrodie (replica "famine ship") – Enniscorthy to enjoy views of the Slaney River – Ferns for its miscellaneous ecclesiastical ruins and tiny cathedral – Woodenbridge, just because it is lovely. Plan for a leisurely day trip. PB

Response:

>The bizarre thing about Ireland is that traffic jams spring up without >warning where you would least expect them eg a village in the middle of >nowhere, except that a highway happens to go through it with a half hour >of traffic backed up on either side.   >Why is it so?

Bloody tourists slowing down while they wonder if they should stop for lunch here. PB

Response:

>>The bizarre thing about Ireland is that traffic jams spring up without >warning where you would least expect them eg a village in the middle of >nowhere, except that a highway happens to go through it with a half hour >of traffic backed up on either side. >Why is it so? >Bloody tourists slowing down while they wonder if they should stop for >lunch here.

I blame religion I’ve been held up a couple of times by funerals with substantial processions at a slow walking pace. On Sundays, everyone drives to church and parks on the road.  You can just get one car past but if there’s someone coming the other way as well… — UK Aromatherapy Information and Products: http://www.celtic-flame.co.uk

Response:

14 Jul 02 Are the roads between Ardmore, County Waterford and Avoca, County Wicklow decent enough for one to drive comfortably in one day between the two?  Have made B&B reservations at both places (first night in Ardmore, next in Avoca) and now wonder if I should stop over between the two?  Time is rather tight here so if I can do it in one day, I would rather.  Nan

Response:

>14 Jul 02 >Are the roads between Ardmore, County Waterford and Avoca, County Wicklow >decent enough for one to drive comfortably in one day between the two?  Have >made B&B reservations at both places (first night in Ardmore, next in Avoca) >and now wonder if I should stop over between the two?  Time is rather tight >here so if I can do it in one day, I would rather.  Nan

No problem. And plenty of time to smell the flowers. Don’t miss Avoca Handweavers. PB

Response:

>14 Jul 02 >Are the roads between Ardmore, County Waterford and Avoca, County Wicklow >decent enough for one to drive comfortably in one day between the two?  Have >made B&B reservations at both places (first night in Ardmore, next in Avoca) >and now wonder if I should stop over between the two?  Time is rather tight >here so if I can do it in one day, I would rather.  Nan

It’s 175 km, just under three hours of driving according to Autoroute. — UK Aromatherapy Information and Products: http://www.celtic-flame.co.uk

Response:

>Let me know what questions you would like answered by the experts in >various fields of Alternative Health.

For starters … do they have any double-blind clinical studioes to back up their vlaims, or are they doing NewAge woo-woo voo-doo (not that I have anything against witch doctering, but when I do it, I know that’s what I’m doing) Tsu Dho Nimh When faced with choice between changing one’s mind and proving there is no need to do so, almost everyone gets busy on the proof. John Kenneth Galbraith

Response:

Hi everyone My name is Lisa van den Berg and I am starting an e-zine on Alternative Health for Beginners. Let me know what questions you would like answered by the experts in various fields of Alternative Health. Fields ranging from Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Magnotherapy, Crystal Healing, Reiki, Meditation and Ayurveda, just to mention a few. The e-zine will include resources on where to buy products, how to find a practitioner, articles of interest on a different therapy every week, tips and tricks and much, much more. I look forward to helping you find valuable, reliable sources of alternative therapies to improve your life, the natural way.

Response:

Yes Graham, I know you are bothered can’t stand me and I asked you do stop harassing. You have sent me enough messages and think you are the boss of all lists. Funny 1% of all lists don’t have a problem with me. You don’t accept my messages to your e-mail address and I think it is only fair that you ignore me. I mean it, stop harassing me. I am not bothering you, ignore my messages. This is getting to be ridiculous. I heard you now leave me alone. Do not reply to any of my messages, I do not need your advice. You have some nerve. Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >writes >Hi, >I would just like to know if anyone is bothered by my frequent post to the >list about my aromatherapy mailing list? Is yes speak up or forever hold >your peace!!!!! >You know very well that people are "bothered" by your frequent and multi >newsgroup posting of the same message. I notice you have not bothered to >ask this question in all the newsgroups you have posted to. >I am just trying to get the word out. I have no profit in this. I am just >trying to make a place so poeple can share their knowledge about >aromatherapy.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I would just like to know if anyone is bothered by my frequent post to > the > list about my aromatherapy mailing list? > I get HIGH sniffing a fresh Hyacinth bloom!  What a rush.  I cut them every > spring, bring them in and like a cat with catnip I sniff it until it wilts > away and dried up.  I then go cold turkey until the next spring. > — > Carol…… > You know it’s going to be a bad day when: > "Airline food starts to taste good." > Before you buy health products on the net, see…

ahhh carol,  me heart goes allofaflutter when you says them purty things like today… ummm   -do you think herb’ll mind me sayin’ this? (he’s not the jealous kind is he?)    o o o o – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

around, insisting there is "no relationship"    (yet?)  - think he’s the shy-silent type carol dear…  just has a little trouble expressing his deeper feelings an all… your friend, k.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> > I would just like to know if anyone is bothered by my frequent post to > the > > list about my aromatherapy mailing list? > I get HIGH sniffing a fresh Hyacinth bloom!  What a rush.  I cut them > every > spring, bring them in and like a cat with catnip I sniff it until it wilts > away and dried up.  I then go cold turkey until the next spring. > — > Carol…… > You know it’s going to be a bad day when: > "Airline food starts to taste good." > Before you buy health products on the net, see… > ahhh carol,  me heart goes allofaflutter when you says them purty things > like today… > ummm   -do you think herb’ll mind me sayin’ this? > (he’s not the jealous kind is he?) >    o o o o

Response:

> ahhh carol,  me heart goes allofaflutter when you says them purty things > like today…

$$$  I’m not immune to some aromas…  newly cut and curing Alfalfa hay is another favorite.  :o)  But then there are a few perfumes I’ve had in my day such as Channel #5 and Evening in Paris that also had an effect like catnip to a cat… on me. > ummm   -do you think herb’ll mind me sayin’ this? > (he’s not the jealous kind is he?)

$$$  Hummmm…   I don’t know. — Carol…… You know it’s going to be a bad day when: "You put both contact lenses in the same eye." Before you buy health products on the net, see… http://www.quackwatch.com/index.html

Response:

writes >Hi, >I would just like to know if anyone is bothered by my frequent post to the >list about my aromatherapy mailing list? Is yes speak up or forever hold >your peace!!!!!

You know very well that people are "bothered" by your frequent and multi newsgroup posting of the same message. I notice you have not bothered to ask this question in all the newsgroups you have posted to. >I am just trying to get the word out. I have no profit in this. I am just >trying to make a place so poeple can share their knowledge about >aromatherapy.

There are a multitude of ways of getting your message across. Multiple postings to multiple newsgroups, many of which have nothing to do with aromatherapy is not the way to go. Contributing to the newsgroups and having the information in a sig file, (Up to 4 lines), is and would be acceptable in practically any newsgroups. So long as you are on topic in your contributions to the particular newsgroups. As I understand it you are already in a few kill files because of your consistent and very frequent postings of the same message. If you want a real answer to your question you need to ask in ALL the newsgroups you have frequently posted to and to use a different mailing address so that you will get around the kill lines with your current e-mail address. I truly hope this helps. — Graham Sorenson        http://www.fragrant.co.uk/                  More than Two Hundred and Thirty Thousand Visits. The Guide to Aromatherapy and hundreds of links to alternative health sites Aromatherapy Conference 2000. May 26th to 29th.    http://Aroma2000.org

Response:

Hi, I would just like to know if anyone is bothered by my frequent post to the list about my aromatherapy mailing list? Is yes speak up or forever hold your peace!!!!! I am just trying to get the word out. I have no profit in this. I am just trying to make a place so poeple can share their knowledge about aromatherapy. Thank Tracy

Response:

> I would just like to know if anyone is bothered by my frequent post to the > list about my aromatherapy mailing list?

I get HIGH sniffing a fresh Hyacinth bloom!  What a rush.  I cut them every spring, bring them in and like a cat with catnip I sniff it until it wilts away and dried up.  I then go cold turkey until the next spring. — Carol…… You know it’s going to be a bad day when: "Airline food starts to taste good." Before you buy health products on the net, see… http://www.quackwatch.com/index.html

Response:

Occasionally, I have the build-up of earwax removed, but never with cotton swabs, which may further compact the earwax against the eardrum.  There’s OTC wax softeners you can use (use a ear syringe for flushing out), or use warm mineral oil.  However, don’t do this if you suspect an ear infection or eardrum rupture. For herbal oils in the ear (warmed), there’s Garlic (antibacterial), Calendula & Mullein flowers (anti-flammatory), Usnea (antifungal), and Willow Bark (pain relief; contains salicin, not aspirin). However, never administer oils if you have a perforated eardrum. Internally, I find that Enchinacea (antibacterial/antiviral) & Goldenseal (or Oregon Grape in place of GS; OG also antibacterial/antobiotic) helps a great deal with my daughter’s recurrent ear infections & my occasional ones. All the best, Catherine Symonds – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >OK, I know it’s because I’ve been sick and I’ve blown my nose a hundred million >times that my inner ear hurts and pops and squeaks.  But normally, what can one >do to promote good health of the inner ear?  The only thing I’ve ever known to >do is put a little warm sweet oil in it if I have an ear ache.  But what can >you do in general to keep your inner ears healthy? >Heather  =)

Response:

>I have the build-up of earwax removed

Oh, My dad had this done years ago.  He said they shot some warm blue liquid in his ear and then clumps of wax fell out into a pan.  He said it was really unbelievebale that all that came out of his head.  It hurts me just to think about it. >OTC wax softeners you can use (use a ear syringe for flushing out), or use >warm mineral oil.

how does this work?  Where are they OTC?  Herb shop? or any pharmacy?  Walmart maybe?  got any name brands? Thanks for the oil recommendations! Heather  =)

Response:

Has anyone ever heard of ear candling?  I saw a company at a trade show a while back.  They were sticking this long beeswax coated tube into the (external part) of the ear and burning it.  When it got about 3 inches from the head, they took it out.  They said it is a great way to remove debris and wax.  Seemed kinda odd to me…  BTW, they did put a tin pie pan between the flame and the head. I’d be interested in hearing anyone else’s experience with ear candling… Best of Health, Autumn Blum Organix Natural Health http://organix.net Your source for natural health, aromatherapy, neem & emu oils, vitamins, herbs for kids, natural pet products and more.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->I have the build-up of earwax removed > Oh, My dad had this done years ago.  He said they shot some warm blue liquid in > his ear and then clumps of wax fell out into a pan.  He said it was really > unbelievebale that all that came out of his head.  It hurts me just to think > about it. >OTC wax softeners you can use (use a ear syringe for flushing out), or use >warm mineral oil. > how does this work?  Where are they OTC?  Herb shop? or any pharmacy? Walmart > maybe?  got any name brands? > Thanks for the oil recommendations! > Heather  =)

Response:

Got to agree with Aaron here. I tried them twice. The first time, I got relief from the drainage in my ears and the second time, I didn’t. So, I tasted what was supposed to be wax from my ears and it wasn’t ear wax. It was parafin and that’s it. — Kay http://www.herbcare.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Has anyone ever heard of ear candling?  I saw a company at a trade show a > while back.  They were sticking this long beeswax coated tube into the > (external part) of the ear and burning it.  When it got about 3 inches from > the head, they took it out.  They said it is a great way to remove debris > and wax.  Seemed kinda odd to me…  BTW, they did put a tin pie pan between > the flame and the head. > I’d be interested in hearing anyone else’s experience with ear candling… > Ear candling is complete bull squat.  It is one of the more obvious and > provable examples of bull squat.  it entails some risks, of fire and wax > burns and introduction of unsterile materials into the ear.  It has not > effect.  It’s a fine party trick and that is that. > AF

Response:

Have you never heard of the placebo effect? The Bible is full of it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Has anyone ever heard of ear candling?  I saw a company at a trade show a > while back.  They were sticking this long beeswax coated tube into the > (external part) of the ear and burning it.  When it got about 3 inches from > the head, they took it out.  They said it is a great way to remove debris > and wax.  Seemed kinda odd to me…  BTW, they did put a tin pie pan between > the flame and the head. > I’d be interested in hearing anyone else’s experience with ear candling… > Best of Health, > Autumn Blum > Organix Natural Health > http://organix.net > Your source for natural health, aromatherapy, neem & emu oils, vitamins, > herbs for kids, natural pet products and more. > >I have the build-up of earwax removed > Oh, My dad had this done years ago.  He said they shot some warm blue > liquid in > his ear and then clumps of wax fell out into a pan.  He said it was really > unbelievebale that all that came out of his head.  It hurts me just to > think > about it. > >OTC wax softeners you can use (use a ear syringe for flushing out), or > use > >warm mineral oil. > how does this work?  Where are they OTC?  Herb shop? or any pharmacy? > Walmart > maybe?  got any name brands? > Thanks for the oil recommendations! > Heather  =)

Response:

OK, I know it’s because I’ve been sick and I’ve blown my nose a hundred million times that my inner ear hurts and pops and squeaks.  But normally, what can one do to promote good health of the inner ear?  The only thing I’ve ever known to do is put a little warm sweet oil in it if I have an ear ache.  But what can you do in general to keep your inner ears healthy? Heather  =)

Response:

>OK, I know it’s because I’ve been sick and I’ve blown my nose a >hundred million times that my inner ear hurts and pops and squeaks. >But normally, what can one do to promote good health of the inner >ear?  The only thing I’ve ever known to do is put a little warm sweet >oil in it if I have an ear ache.  But what can you do in general to >keep your inner ears healthy?

First, a little terminology:  it’s the middle ear you’re talking about.  That’s the air space on the inside of your eardrum.  (The inner ear is different and is the part that controls your sense of balance, for example.) The squeakiness is caused by impeded air movement through your eustachean tubes.  You clear that out with decongestants.  As for keeping it healthy, I’m not sure — as far as I know, there’s no way to make the tubes bigger, and if they’re small they’re more subject to clogging.   — David Wright :: wright at ibnets.com :: Not a Spokesman for Anyone      These are my opinions only, but they’re almost always correct.      "What would Brian Boitano do?"  – Kyle, Stan, and Cartman

Response:

Yep seawolf; garlic is amongst those plant based derivatives. Here’s an interesting piece that might help us "insectavoids". (http://www.acponline.org/journals/annals/01jun98/mosquito.htm  Another article titled " Love ‘Em To Death" appears in BackPacker Magazine, April 1997, Volume 25, Issue 158, Number 3. Although I considered it somewhat of a " tongue in cheek" article, it does have more merit than one would expect. jr

Response:

Hi    I had actually heard that putting fabric softeners in stuff will keep bugs off. Not sure if true or not. Heck, try them all. hahaha You will healthy, smelly, and incredibly soft all at the same time.    Hey, if you are looking for other camping stuff, have a site. Nothing for sale, just tips and tons of our photos from Australia.  Enjoy     Garth     http://www.ozemail.com.au/~galamso – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Howzabout using Garlic? > I hear that if you eat enough Garlic it will keep the skeeters away. > Aside from a little Garlic breath! > Last summer I ate a lot of it and I do not really remember getting bitten > too much. > SW > I suggest you forget about taking B-anything to prevent skeeter bites. I > tried it for awhile and it didn’t work. If they actually do avoid > B-vitamins > in your blood, then they still have to bite, pump anti-coagulant, and wait

Response:

Excellent idea! Maybe they’ll bite softly, and it’ll also get rid of that "clingy" thing they do. (LOL) Hey it’s worth a try eh? Now I’m off to check out your site. jr

Response:

I suggest you forget about taking B-anything to prevent skeeter bites. I tried it for awhile and it didn’t work. If they actually do avoid B-vitamins in your blood, then they still have to bite, pump anti-coagulant, and wait for the flow to decide whether or not they do da dew. You might have better luck wearing a lemon grass citronella; but be careful, the concentrated stuff cand be toxic to humans and animals. If you can handle the power of eucalyptus and citronella oil look at some aromatherapy products. jr " I never get lost; Everyone tells me where to go".

Response:

Howzabout using Garlic? I hear that if you eat enough Garlic it will keep the skeeters away. Aside from a little Garlic breath! Last summer I ate a lot of it and I do not really remember getting bitten too much. SW

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I suggest you forget about taking B-anything to prevent skeeter bites. I > tried it for awhile and it didn’t work. If they actually do avoid B-vitamins > in your blood, then they still have to bite, pump anti-coagulant, and wait

Response:

Should that DEET be intravenous?

Response:

> … Vitamin (B-11?) that would assist in repelling bugs and mosquitos.

I forget whether it’s B-6 or B-12, but it does help if you take heavy doses ~2 weeks before encountering mosquitos.  I’ve also been told brewers yeast works.  In some countries with mosquitos, it’s common to have salt, pepper and yeast shakers at the table. If you do choose B-whatever, *stop taking it* when you get back.  Taking heavy (200mg?) doses much over 2 months can causes damage to your body. Thomas Gilg

Response:

Hi Thomas…. Here is a hint. If you wish to keep those "Spambots" away from your e-mail address, add something like "nospamor, or removetomail" to your email. Do you get excessive SPAM? Later, SW – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Thomas Gilg

Response:

The vitamin is B-1 (aka thiamine) and it works if taken with a reall bug repellent that contains 30% DEET. You also have to take to take more than the usual dosage. I personnaly take 200 mg a day for a week before going camping and 300 mg during the trip. Gabriel

Response:

Interesting! Seeing as I’m the member of the family that is "bug dinner" , I’ve tried a lot of remedies. Vitamin B, I took for 2 years running in different combos, with no appreciable result. I too took 200 mg a day all summer.     Nada. Beware though!! Vitamin B can be toxic, causing nerve damage. Your reply indicated that you use 30% DEET. That is my minimum.  At that strength, Vit B will not be needed. Good Camping!

: The vitamin is B-1 (aka thiamine) and it works if taken with a reall bug : repellent that contains 30% DEET. You also have to take to take more : than the usual dosage. I personnaly take 200 mg a day for a week before : going camping and 300 mg during the trip. : Gabriel

Response:

I seem to recall someone mentioning to me once a Vitamin (B-11?) that would assist in repelling bugs and mosquitos. Does anyone know if this really helps? And what is the vitamin? Thanks

Response:

I don’t know exactly what the action of the vitamin is but it did work for me I believe, my doctor recommended it before a trip to asia and I seemed to get many fewer bites then some of the folks I was traveling with.  I took a B-complex supplement, composed of the members of the B group. >I seem to recall someone mentioning to me once a Vitamin (B-11?) that would >assist in repelling bugs and mosquitos. Does anyone know if this really >helps? And what is the vitamin? >Thanks

"Mean People Produce Little Mean People" address SPAM protected to protect the innocent

Response:

> Have heard that lobelia, coltsfoot, and thorn apple can all be used for > asthma- does anyone know about them, how safe they are, what amounts are > used, how they are prepared, which ones work the fastest or most > efficently?  This information is hard to find.  Thanks

Any botanicals used in smoke mixtures are cut and sifted herbs.  Simply mix the herbs together, and roll into ‘cigarrettes’ with cig wrapping papers you can get from any place that sells tobacco.  I personally would not reccommend smoking herbs directly this way, however, but burning them to let them fill the air.  The early Native Americans also used Mullein. Kathleen — http://www.cnw.com/~bygone/herbcat.html Herbal Pleasures & Treasures Nothing Could Be More Natural! Bulk Herbs & Spices & Accessories, Aromatherapy & Jewelry, Natural, Animal Cruelty-free Products for Home, Family, and Pets.

Response:

> very good and accurate advise

Absolutely, especially about the thornapple (datura). It grows commonly in this country and its effects truly a re horrendous. Inhaling it can also be sublethal. It is truly a plant that was meant when the Ancient Roman (Virgil?) wrote. ‘Whom the gods would destroy, they first must make mad.’ A truly timely warning in the case of datura. >>Have heard that lobelia, coltsfoot, and thorn apple can all be used for >>asthma- does anyone know about them, how safe they are, what amounts are >>used, how they are prepared, which ones work the fastest or most >>efficently? >Lobelia is safe in small doses, which relax the lungs to prevent spasms. > Larger >doses cause vomiting. Coltsfoot is safe for short term use, though it has > the >same alkaloids found in fresh comfrey that can cause hepatitis. Thornapple > and >it’s relatives should not be fooled with. They contain atropine, > hyocyamine, >and scopalamine. They can easily kill you.

after druving you mad. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->I would suggest schisandra berries, amla or another source of vitamin C and >bioflavonoids; especially quercetin, and a mixture of coleus forskohlii and >yerba mate’. >recommended dosage is 1/3 teaspoon of schisandra berry powder 3 times daily >before meals. Same for the amla, or 500mg of vitamin C with bioflavonoids 3 > to >4 times daily. I suggest using tinctures for the coleus forskohlii and > yerba >mate’ mixture in a1 part forskohlii and 1/2 part mate’ mixture. Recommended >dosage of the mixture is 20 to 30 drops 3 times daily on an empty stomach. > The >forskohlii will raise intracellular cAMP, the mate’ prevents the breakdown > of >cAMP. This will help prevent the attacks until the adrenal glands build > back up >to do this.

Just don’t try to smoke any of the above. The heat alone will damage your lungs.     pax    silverfern

Response:

very good and accurate advise – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Have heard that lobelia, coltsfoot, and thorn apple can all be used for >asthma- does anyone know about them, how safe they are, what amounts are >used, how they are prepared, which ones work the fastest or most >efficently? >Lobelia is safe in small doses, which relax the lungs to prevent spasms. Larger >doses cause vomiting. Coltsfoot is safe for short term use, though it has the >same alkaloids found in fresh comfrey that can cause hepatitis. Thornapple and >it’s relatives should not be fooled with. They contain atropine, hyocyamine, >and scopalamine. They can easily kill you. >I would suggest schisandra berries, amla or another source of vitamin C and >bioflavonoids; especially quercetin, and a mixture of coleus forskohlii and >yerba mate’. >recommended dosage is 1/3 teaspoon of schisandra berry powder 3 times daily >before meals. Same for the amla, or 500mg of vitamin C with bioflavonoids 3 to >4 times daily. I suggest using tinctures for the coleus forskohlii and yerba >mate’ mixture in a1 part forskohlii and 1/2 part mate’ mixture. Recommended >dosage of the mixture is 20 to 30 drops 3 times daily on an empty stomach. The >forskohlii will raise intracellular cAMP, the mate’ prevents the breakdown of >cAMP. This will help prevent the attacks until the adrenal glands build back up >to do this.

Response:

>Have heard that lobelia, coltsfoot, and thorn apple can all be used for >asthma- does anyone know about them, how safe they are, what amounts are >used, how they are prepared, which ones work the fastest or most >efficently?

Lobelia is safe in small doses, which relax the lungs to prevent spasms. Larger doses cause vomiting. Coltsfoot is safe for short term use, though it has the same alkaloids found in fresh comfrey that can cause hepatitis. Thornapple and it’s relatives should not be fooled with. They contain atropine, hyocyamine, and scopalamine. They can easily kill you. I would suggest schisandra berries, amla or another source of vitamin C and bioflavonoids; especially quercetin, and a mixture of coleus forskohlii and yerba mate’. recommended dosage is 1/3 teaspoon of schisandra berry powder 3 times daily before meals. Same for the amla, or 500mg of vitamin C with bioflavonoids 3 to 4 times daily. I suggest using tinctures for the coleus forskohlii and yerba mate’ mixture in a1 part forskohlii and 1/2 part mate’ mixture. Recommended dosage of the mixture is 20 to 30 drops 3 times daily on an empty stomach. The forskohlii will raise intracellular cAMP, the mate’ prevents the breakdown of cAMP. This will help prevent the attacks until the adrenal glands build back up to do this.  

Response:

Have heard that lobelia, coltsfoot, and thorn apple can all be used for asthma- does anyone know about them, how safe they are, what amounts are used, how they are prepared, which ones work the fastest or most efficently?  This information is hard to find.  Thanks

Response:

This guy does not know what he is talking about.  Raw bones are soft and highly digestible.  Cooked bones become hard and brittle.  I guess you could say it is possible to choke on a raw bone but, it is possible to choke on dog kibble also, just not probable.  Just be sure to give large bones, like leg or knuckle bones. Kyla – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >If you want to kill your dog from splinters in the esophagus, stomach or >intestines it does not matter whether bones are cooked or raw. >I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was >wondering >if I should cook them first or just give as is. >– >Thank You! >Eric marceau

Response:

> I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was wondering > if I should cook them first or just give as is. > — > Thank You! > Eric marceau

Raw is better than cooked. Cooked bones definately splinter and break into smaller swallowable pieces. I once gave our airedale puppy the remains of a large t-bone steak that had been on the b.b.q…. well he devoured it in three bites. Next thing you know he’s got a chunk lodged in his bowel and was very ill for quite a few days and I suffered some serious guilt!  Since then I only give marrow or soup (large) bones raw as our vet advised. Donna — The Ryan’s http://www3.sympatico.ca/ryan7

Response:

I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was wondering if I should cook them first or just give as is. — Thank You! Eric marceau

Response:

Eric, Cooked bones are what you need to worry about- they splinter, while when raw bones do not. I feed raw chicken wings and turkey necks. The turkey necks are great- have softer bones in them, but work great for cleaning teeth. My 12 y.o. golden had lots of tartar build-up on his back teeth, but the turkey necks have really helped to clean it up. Theya re cheap too- I get mine for 18 cents a lb! I also give them beef marrow bones for recreational chewing. Thick ones so they can’t break any pieces off. They love to lick the marrow out and chew on them for days- outdoors, I prefer! I have had no problems at all with feeding them this way. They are doing very well. Good luck Kristen Kristen Bell-Sprouse, PIA-Certified Aromatherapist, Member National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy Featuring "Aromadog" natural products & remedies for canine ailments based on essential oils and Aromatherapy: http://www.divinedog.com My Goldens: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Valley/9713/

Response:

> I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was wondering > if I should cook them first or just give as is. > — > Thank You! > Eric marceau

Eric, nothing wrong with raw bones …. I give mine bones about 4 times a week which they chew to death …… they also get chicken carcasses and wings. The only time mine get cooked bones is when they are large solid bones that cannot splinter like leg bones …… these are good. I have never had a dog choke or get problems in the bowel with this.  They will if you give them small chop bones cooked etc …… If your dog is big try getting the larger leg bones ….. I have 6 maltese.

Response:

> If you want to kill your dog from splinters in the esophagus, stomach or > intestines it does not matter whether bones are cooked or raw.

What a load of crap!!  Dogs have been eating raw bones for thousands of years with no problems then along comes us humans and domesticate them and then start filling them with rubbish canned food because the pet food companies convince us that our dogs wil now suddenly choke on what they have eaten for thousands of years with no problem!! I have fed my dogs – no matter what breed – raw bones from the time they first took an interest in meat …. I have never had a dog choke on them, get bound up by them etc yet.  Bones provide the calcium necessary for the dog to have a nice white stool that does not smell and disintergrates soon after defacation. Canned and processed food is what leaves piles of doggy-doo everywhere. Mate, you need to do a little more reading and thinking about this one!

Response:

> I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was wondering > if I should cook them first or just give as is.

On the advice of others in this group, I now give my 1-yr-old, 35 lb terrier mix raw bones.  He gets one maybe once a week (usually given to occupy him if we’re going away for a few hours).  I buy him "soup bones" – shank bones – that are at least 2" long. Anything "shallower" than that, and I would fear splintering. Also, it would take him far less time to get the marrow out. As long as the walls of the bone seem thick, and as long as your dog doesn’t have the bone-crushing capacity of a Rotti, you should be fine. As for another poster’s comments about splinters in intestines, etc., killing your dog — yes, this will happen with the wrong kinds of bones. Thick walled shank bones shouldn’t splinter. Best bet, keep an eye on your dog and see what kind of damage it does to the bone I’ve tried a few cooked bones with my pup and these DO tend to "chip"…not really splinter.  I didn’t feel comfortable with that. I think the trick is – keep an eye on your dog, and do remember that moderation is the key. (also, my boy keeps his bones for a long time, and if I see that one is starting to chip a little – I’ve yet to see it from the raw bones) – I toss it out.) good luck, Eric. illona – and happy bone-eating Murph-monster

Response:

Eric My Rhodesians were given bones every second day, and they love them, especially if they have marrow in.  I make sure that they get reasonably sized bones, no the small type or chicken bones.  Helps keep their teeth in good condition and helps with bad breath too!! Sharyn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was wondering > if I should cook them first or just give as is. > — > Thank You! > Eric marceau

Response:

If you want to kill your dog from splinters in the esophagus, stomach or intestines it does not matter whether bones are cooked or raw. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >I would like to buy some bones from my butcher for my dog, and was wondering >if I should cook them first or just give as is. >– >Thank You! >Eric marceau

Response:

Senior Innova–Innova is great food, and senior appears to be especially light on calories (my bitch lost 15 lbs on it).                                 n, Sandi Shrager                 _/ | _ School of Social Work        /’  `’/ University of Washington   <~    .’                          _/      |                        _/      `.`.                   ____/ ‘   __ | |______

Response:

Pat, When  my dogs look a little "chunky" I cut back on their regular food (raw or kibble, if you feed that) and add things such as green beans, squash or pumpkin. These foods are low in calories and help them to feel full, less deprived. I also give them more fruits, such as apples and bananas. My mother used to rely on science diet for her dog to lose weight- then she tried this and felt a lot better about it- like she was treating her dog as opposed to depriving it. After all- the first ingredient in science diet’s diet formula is ground peanut hulls! Good luck! PS_ add some flaxseed oil or other essential fatty oils to the food to help with the dry coat and skin. Also consider a check-up to see if she could possible be hypothyroid. Weight gain and dry coat are indicative of that disorder. Kristen Bell-Sprouse, PIA-Certified Aromatherapist, Member National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy Featuring "Aromadog" natural products & remedies for canine ailments based on essential oils and Aromatherapy: http://www.divinedog.com My Goldens: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Valley/9713/

Response:

I want to thank all of you for your help! Pat

Response:

I use Nutro Max Special. It’s a high-grade food with low protein and low fat, designed for overweight, less active, and senior dogs ( my Lucie tends to be all three).  She is losing weight on this, with some increase in exercise. I tried Nutro Natural Choice Senior and Lite, and they both gave her gas.  But she loves Special, it agrees with her, and she is losing weight.  I recommend it. >Hi, >Since you’re talking about dog food, I need some advice.  I have a 3 >year old Golden female and she is overweight.  Can you recommend a high >quality diet brand?  I’m afraid she’ll continue to gain weight over the >winter if I don’t do something now. She is not a total couch potato but >not especially active either.  Her coat is thick but dry and fly-away >and she recently got her first hot spot – a very bad one.  Anything >special food or supplement to help the dry skin? >Thanks very much, >Pat

– Our lives begin to end the day we are silent about things that matter.                                         Martin Luther King, Jr.

Response:

  Her coat is thick but dry and fly-away >and she recently got her first hot spot – a very bad one.  Anything >special food or supplement to help the dry skin?

This reminds me–I started with the Nutro partly because the feed store manager (a friend) said Nutro is especially good for skin and coat.  And that seems to be true. — Our lives begin to end the day we are silent about things that matter.                                         Martin Luther King, Jr.

Response:

>This is the BEST diet food I know of >Keep your dog on your regular dog food BUT use 1/2 the normal amount and >make up the other half of the dog’s meal with green beans, carrots, stewed >tomato or canned pumpkin or squash. The veggies add the bulk the dog needs >and limits the calories nicely. Skip ‘cookies’ and substitute raw veggies

. I agree, but make sure it’s canned pumpkin 100% and not pumpkin pie filling!  Also, if you use canned veggies (Veg-all, etc.) make sure they are sodium free. . As for hot spots, the veggies might build up the immune system, and you can also try adding some (a tablespoon) of good quality oil to the food (not low cal, of course).  I can’t remember which is the best kind of oil – canola? . kassa

Response:

Hi, Since you’re talking about dog food, I need some advice.  I have a 3 year old Golden female and she is overweight.  Can you recommend a high quality diet brand?  I’m afraid she’ll continue to gain weight over the winter if I don’t do something now. She is not a total couch potato but not especially active either.  Her coat is thick but dry and fly-away and she recently got her first hot spot – a very bad one.  Anything special food or supplement to help the dry skin? Thanks very much, Pat

Response:

Pat, While it’s not marketed as such, Solid Gold Hund-n-flocken can have a diet food effect.  It has a terrific ingredient list, all human-grade. It was my first foray into a more natural food by a smaller manufacturer, great product line/catalog (if a little alarmist). However, one of my older German Shorthaired Pointers lost weight while on it, which he didn’t need to do; this has been echoed by other users I know, that it can have a diet-food effect. If one is feeding H-n-f, Solid Gold strongly suggests supplementing with their SeaMeal, which contains *excellent* trace minerals, enzymes, and vitamins; while most dog food manufacturers add vits & minerals to their formulation, much of the effectiveness is diminished or erased altogether in the high-heat manufacturing processes required of commercial food. For the coat, you might look into a fatty acid supplement; there are many good ones on the market.  I use Veterinarian’s Best for my boys. It’s a liquid formulation, which I prefer to use, and they like the flavor.  (They out&out refused another one, and promptly vomited up a third.)  Linatone is well thought of by some folks I know.  Pill or capsule form include DermCaps, 3V SkinCaps, and many more.  Because H-n-f is rather low in fat (8%, if I recall), I usually recommend that you supplement with a fatty acid, but especially given your description of her dry coat, it’s worth a try regardless of food. Tracy Landauer

Response:

This is the BEST diet food I know of Keep your dog on your regular dog food BUT use 1/2 the normal amount and make up the other half of the dog’s meal with green beans, carrots, stewed tomato or canned pumpkin or squash. The veggies add the bulk the dog needs and limits the calories nicely. Skip ‘cookies’ and substitute raw veggies or rice cakes instead. add in a little extra exercise and you should have a slimmer dog pretty soon Nancy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hi, > Since you’re talking about dog food, I need some advice.  I have a 3 > year old Golden female and she is overweight.  Can you recommend a high > quality diet brand?  I’m afraid she’ll continue to gain weight over the > winter if I don’t do something now. She is not a total couch potato but > not especially active either.  Her coat is thick but dry and fly-away > and she recently got her first hot spot – a very bad one.  Anything > special food or supplement to help the dry skin? > Thanks very much, > Pat

Response:

For some reason our two labs have suddenly been plagued by ticks. We never had them in our yard before, maybe the drought here in Texas made them worse? We have treated the yard with nematodes and the trees and wood on the house with a commercial pesticide (a last resort), and are using Frontline (luckily we have had no skin reaction), although it seems to work barely three weeks. So a couple questions– We used nematodes on the yard for fleas, are these effective on tick larvae as well? Are there any other shampoos or skin treatments that will repel ticks? Is there a vitamin or herb or something else we can give the dogs to repel the fleas "from the inside" ? Thanks so much, Stacy (and Hershey and Jewel) in Texas

Response:

>For some reason our two labs have suddenly been plagued by ticks. We never >had them in our yard before, maybe the drought here in Texas made them worse? >We have treated the yard with nematodes and the trees and wood on the house >with a commercial pesticide (a last resort), and are using Frontline (luckily >we have had no skin reaction), although it seems to work barely three weeks. >So a couple questions– >We used nematodes on the yard for fleas, are these effective on tick larvae as >well? >Are there any other shampoos or skin treatments that will repel ticks? >Is there a vitamin or herb or something else we can give the dogs to repel the >fleas "from the inside" ? >Thanks so much, >Stacy (and Hershey and Jewel) in Texas

Dear Stacy and pals, You might try the "Preventic" collars — these have been very effective for friends who also do search and rescue work with my wife and me, and were recommended by my vet if we did NOT use the Frontline TopSpot (which we do, successfully).  Good luck — I have friends in Texas, and it has been one hell of a summer down there! Jim Hill Columbus, Ohio

Response:

I second the motion for the Preventic collars as I have used them with great success over the last 3 years Nancy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->For some reason our two labs have suddenly been plagued by ticks. We never >had them in our yard before, maybe the drought here in Texas made them worse? >We have treated the yard with nematodes and the trees and wood on the house >with a commercial pesticide (a last resort), and are using Frontline (luckily >we have had no skin reaction), although it seems to work barely three weeks. >So a couple questions– >We used nematodes on the yard for fleas, are these effective on tick larvae as >well? >Are there any other shampoos or skin treatments that will repel ticks? >Is there a vitamin or herb or something else we can give the dogs to repel the >fleas "from the inside" ? >Thanks so much, >Stacy (and Hershey and Jewel) in Texas > Dear Stacy and pals, > You might try the "Preventic" collars — these have been very effective for > friends who also do search and rescue work with my wife and me, and were > recommended by my vet if we did NOT use the Frontline TopSpot (which we do, > successfully).  Good luck — I have friends in Texas, and it has been one > hell of a summer down there! > Jim Hill > Columbus, Ohio

Response:

You should treat 3 weeks apart until no more ticks the tick eggs take about that long to hatch. Steve

Response:

Stacy, If you want to use something natural to repel ticks, there are herbal collars out there. I know they repel fleas, but am not sure if they do ticks too. Natural Animal makes one. I use a blend of Geranium, Myrhh, Opoponax, Bay Laurel and Lavender essential oils to keep ticks away. I dilute it in a vegetable oil base and add a few drops to the collar, feet, base of tail and neck before they go outside. No tick problems here. Kristen Bell-Sprouse, PIA-Certified Aromatherapist Featuring "Aromadog" natural products & remedies for canine ailments based on essential oils and Aromatherapy: http://www.divinedog.com My Goldens: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Valley/9713/

Response: