Do our genes determine our destiny?  Not necessarily so.  Genes may be the gun, but habits are the trigger. This is great news for me, since my gene pool is pretty awful.

The American Institute of Cancer Research reports that even with a family history, 45% of colon cancers, 38% of breast cancer, 69% of esophageal cancers would never occur if Americans ate better, weighed less and exercised more.  Just food for thought.

Hugs.

Esta McIntyre, NASM CPT/CES
www.myhealthstudio.com

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I think we can sum up most dog’s personalities with one word; mischievous. All dogs, especially puppies, are prone to getting into trouble at one time or another.

On occasion they may become seriously injured. Though your Vet is highly trained to handle these types of situations, you might need to stabilize your pooch before transporting him there. That is why the basic first aid procedures are essential for all dog owners.

First, just like the first aid kit you have for yourself and your family; make a kit for your dog to include the following:

• Important contact numbers, like your vet, poison control, and an emergency clinic. Along with their complete medical history including breed, weight, and age.
• Next, throw in the items to help restrain your dog and examine the wound:
• a muzzle
• magnifying glass
• tweezers
• a penlight
• clean towels (one big enough to use as a stretcher if need be)
• disposable gloves
• sterile saline
• an eye dropper (to flush wounds)
• hydrogen peroxide (this can be used to disinfect any wound, as well as induce vomiting in cases of poisoning. Use as directed by vet)
• antibiotic ointment
• cortisone spray to keep them from scratching
• first aid tape
• activated charcoal (to help absorb any poison in their system. Call the poison control center before using.)
• wrapping gauze

• Also, if your dog has any pre-existing conditions which require special medication, you should have a back-up stash in the kit.

Here are a few tips for handling an injured pooch.

• Never try to hug or caress them, the pain can make them unpredictable and even dangerous.
• While carefully examining the wound, call your vet or emergency clinic to notify them, allowing them to prepare, as well as coach you through the transportation.
• Muzzle your pet to prevent biting.  Do not use a muzzle if the dog is vomiting!
• Attempt to bandage the part of the body where the wound is, so it can’t move.
• Use a blanket or pet carrier to transport the dog, making sure the area is small, so he can’t move.

After you bring your dog home from the Vet make sure that you give them lots of love and attention. Give them a yummy treat, if the Vet allows. Always remember to feed your dog with love and a wise heart.

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Most folks think the best way to relieve stress is to relax on the sofa, but it may be the the other way around; it seems that movement is the key to obtaining that coveted feeling of well-being!

The healing benefits of regular exercise have been proven. Research has shown that consistent movement can increase health and happiness. In fact, it's likely that if exercise were a drug, it would be one of the most effective prescriptions available. Instead of putting off exercise in favor of your preferred reality show or televised sports game, make your own reality by finding the joy in movement.

As trainers, we're required to instruct our clients that they should consult a doctor before starting an exercise program (and in certain circumstances, this is critical). However, looking at the evidence, it would be advisable to consult an M.D. before positioning yourself on the sofa for addictive sessions with the TV!

Please visit www.myhealthstudio.com and click on "Event/Class Calendar" for class schedules.

Tags: exercise | movement | fitness | dance

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