Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats [Paperback]

Richard H. Pitcairn D.V.M. (Author), Susan Hubble Pitcairn (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 15, 1995

Now completely updated and revised, this is an expanded edition of the classic natural pet-care book by veterinarian Richard H. Pitcairn and his wife Susan Pitcairn-- both renowned specialists in chemical-free nutrition, treatment and natural healing for pets. Written with the warmth and compassion that have won the Pitcairns a nationwide following, this guide will help you select the most compatible dog or cat for your own lifestyle-- and show you how to provide the very best in companionship, healing, nutrition and lifelong care. Since its publication more than a decade ago, the Pitcairns' book has become the definitive guide to a natural lifestyle for dogs and cats.

A comprehensive, thorough reference, this pet-lover's companion will tell you:

* How to choose a healthy animal
* Dozens of recipes for delicious, economical, healthful pet food-- with completely updated tables, charts and nutritional guidelines
* How to give your pet a checkup
* What's really in pet foods-- and which ones to avoid to ensure your pet's best health
* Special diets for special pets
* A guide to handling emergencies that includes techniques for external heart massage, artificial respiration and control of bleeding

PLUS:
An in-depth, alphabetical "Quick Reference" section that gives specific instructions for preventing, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of animal diseases and disorders-- from abscesses, allergies and behavior problems to vaccination risks, weight problems and worms. The Pitcairns' approach is drug-free and holistic-- with special attention to homeopathic and alternative remedies and treatments.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

A classic natural pet-care book from two celebrated veterinary specialists in chemical-free nutrition, treatment, and natural healing for pets, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats offers valuable natural and holistic advice on a host of pet topics, including, but not limited to, diet, exercise, environment, coping with a pet's death, and how to care for a sick animal. In addition to their thorough discussion of the above, Richard Pitcairn, D.V.M., and his wife, Susan Hubble Pitcairn, M.S., offer a comprehensive "quick reference" section on animal illnesses, organized alphabetically and including a brief description of each illness, preventative measures that may be taken, and holistic and natural treatment options for both dogs and cats--treatments that should always be discussed with one's vet before being used. Occasional line drawings, informative graphs, and the Pitcairn's intelligent prose make this guide a must-have for pet owners interested in a natural lifestyle for their pets.

Review

"The most comprehensive guide to natural health care for pets-- required reading for all animal lovers!"--Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., Editor, Veterinary Acupuncture: Ancient Art to Modern Medicine

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 383 pages
• Publisher: Rodale Books; Revised edition (June 15, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0875962432
• ISBN-13: 978-0875962436
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (87 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #271,212 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #13 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Animal Care & Pets > Cats > Care & Health
  • #90 in Books > Medical Books > Veterinary Medicine > Small Animal Medicine

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

144 of 146 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent, common sense approach to caring for your pet., December 4, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats (Paperback)

I love my dog and have always been concerned about the chemicals, dyes and other additives found in most commercial dog foods. I have talked to many veterinarians who are unconcerned about the rancid meat scraps, etc. that are put into kibble. Although I have found a product containing no chemical additives, I still felt guilty about feeding my dog something that I wouldn't expect a person to be able to live on. I have read many books on dog health, and was not impressed by any of them. Then I read Dr. Pitcairn's book. It was intelligent, well written and made perfect sense. The only inhibition I had about starting a natural diet for my dog was the cost. I'm a graduate student and money is tight. However, I started supplementing my dog's kibble with Pitcairn's suggested recepies. She is bouncing and playing like a puppy, her teeth are cleaner and her coat has gone from dull to shiny. I am so impressed by the changes I've seen, I have decided to eliminate the kibble entirely. Feeding my dog a natural food diet is much easier and less expensive than I thought. I have already extolled the virtues of this book to all of my dog owning friends and would highly recommend it to anyone who cares about the health of their animal. A wonderful book!

65 of 65 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books on holistic pet health, October 18, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats (Paperback)

For the dedicated pet owner who needs information about nutrition and the real facts about commercial pet food. Along with The Holistic Guide For A Healthy Dog, this is one of the best sources of information on nutrition and how it affects your pets health.I have a 6 year old Rott/Shepard mix who has hip dysplasia and is very overweight. The traditional vet I saw recommended Science Diet low calorie food to take the weight off, but when I read the ingredients(the FIRST ingredient is peanut shell hulls AND it contains BHT and ethoxyquin both known to cause serious health problems in dogs including cancer!!) I just couldn't subject my dog to the risk of new health problems just to get him to lose weight. I found a weight loss recipe in Dr. Pitcairns book which I make from scratch and the weight is coming off and my dog has never been healthier. Make sure you question methods your vet suggests, especially if it may compromise your dogs health and arm yourself with this book which will prove to be an invaluable source you will look to again and again.

56 of 57 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars If you love your animal(s) then read this book!, January 4, 2000

By 

A Customer - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats (Paperback)

Dr. Pitcairn's book is a tremendous eye opener. Its full of information that you may otherwise not be aware of. I now know what is in commercial pet food and was horrified. I guarantee that I would NEVER eat it, so why would I give it to my cats? Dr. Pitcairn tells you how you can care for and feed your cat or dog, in a relatively easy manner. I have 4 cats and they have never been healthier. Prior to the dietary change, in a one month period, I had 2 cats that were diagnosed with FUS (urinary tract problems) which were due to diet. Pet food makers suggest low ash diets, but not Dr. Pitcairn. I followed his direction, and now feed my cats a natural, raw, healthy diet. I did this with the blessing of my DVM. My cats love their food, which includes veggies, oats and supplements. All 4 cats have full blown yearly exams and all have had stellar results. They are frisky, happy animals. Their only visits are their annual exams, which are informative more than anything else. I believe that we owe it all to Dr. Pitcairn and his sound, natural advice. Don't hesitate to read this book, its one that every animal loving, pet owner should have. Its fabulous!