Alternative Therapies for Knee Pain

I would like to participate in a new medical study regarding natural therapies to help sore knees.  According to Eve Jacobs in her article, Knee Deep in Holistic Alternatives, Rutgers Magazine (Winter 2014), Rutgers School of Health Related Professions is participating in a study to discover the effects of massage on knees. 

Our knees support our weight and carry us through so many daily activities they tend to wear out over time or become injured.  Those who suffer from osteoarthritis may be interested to know that massage – not just of the knees, but the whole body – may offer some relief. The idea is that by boosting out immune systems the effects of this condition may be alleviated. For the moment, surgery or drugs offer the only relief, but we'll be eager to learn the results of this study, and maybe consider having more routine massages.

I recently experienced knee pain from standing, with most of my considerable weight on one leg, for long periods of time. A bad choice was not wearing supportive shoes while standing. Once I corrected the posture and foot wear, I returned to exercising, a bit worried that I might do more damage. But after careful exercise, I found my knee was better. Keeping our joints and muscles moving is recommended by health professionals as a way to deal with arthritis.

Keeping blood circulating is important and that might be the reason for the theory that massage helps alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knees. If that is the case, then a bit of heat treatment might help as well. Heat is known to stimulate circulation and improve flexibility.

Maine Warmers’ Knee Pack is a microwaveable heating pad that might be just the thing to bring comfort and blood circulation to the knee. For kids, and kids at heart, Maine Warmers offers an alligator and whale shaped Warmers, among other traditional and animal shaped heating pads that not only provide soothing heat, but bring a smile too. And a smile is healing in itself.

Art and Technology

Artists today can present their designs to the world through the Web. In the past two decades markets have expanded with the technology of computers and the Internet, changing the world of art and marketing. The Internet continues to grow in leaps and bounds, and will continue.

When web sites became well-known and used for shopping in the late 1990's, I saw an opportunity to

Microwave Hand Warmers

market to the world the simple little microwave heating pads I had been designing, making, and giving to friends and family members for years. 

If my father had not introduced me to computers I may not have started Maine Warmers.While taking a Web Site Development class at University of Southern Maine, the instructor kept telling us that a strong resume included good writing skills along with technology skills. An artist creates within technical limitations, and as technology grows the boundaries of what can be accomplished expands.

Due to computers, the internet, and hours of designing, photographing, learning how to run a business, and learning new technologies around web site marketing, I continue to make Maine Warmers microwave heating pads available online. They are sold throughout the US in gift stores and other venues. See our web site for store locations and all of Maine Warmers products on one page.

Unique and Decorative Body Warmers in Animal Shapes

How to Improve Your Posture

Good posture is simple. It has to do with lifting your rib cage up away from your pelvis which then naturally aligns your spine, shoulders, neck and head. “Keep a neutral spine,” says my exercise teacher, “and the natural curve in you lower spine.” Good posture helps you keep those abdominal muscles tucked in too.

It does not mean being uncomfortable or trying to maintain a contrived stressful position.

Extra Large Heating Pad for the Back

Good posture also lessens the stress on joints. According to an article, "The Power of Posture," in Arthritis Today, March-April 2014, (p. 27), good posture affects thinking and may provide an attitude of “power over pain," and ultimately, help you feel better.  The Arthritis Today Web site has some Tips for Good Posture. It may also keep you in better shape to take care of yourself longer as you age.

An examination by a physician may reveal abnormalities in the structure of the back that may prevent good posture. If you have difficulty maintaining good posture it may be worth a visit to a qualified medical professional to find out the cause. A physical therapist may also be a resource for helping establish a healthy posture.

Cozy Whale Microwave Back Warmer

If you need to relax tight back muscles from exercising or doing some strenuous activity, try an extra large Back Warmer from Maine Warmers. Even Yoga exercises can cause sore muscles. A Cozy Whale makes a lovely gift of comfort and care for a friend who deals with the joint pain of arthritis. A Snowy Owl Warmer (not pictured here) also provides heat to soothe tense muscles, ease cramps, and relax muscle spasms.

Snowy Owl Warmer

Emergence of Emergency Medical Technicians

At dinner last night we were talking about a man who collapsed on a street in Portland, Maine on Christmas Eve and how someone stopped to help him until the EMTs arrived. Today the man is back to living a normal life.

We take for granted that when there is a medical emergency an ambulance with trained personnel will be there ASAP to help. They’ll not only transport people to the nearest hospital, but they will perform procedures to help the victim survive while on the way.

It wasn’t until the early 1970's that a need for emergency personnel became an issue in Portland, Maine. A committee was established to look at setting up MEDCU, a new emergency response system designed to help people – not just transport them to the hospital. Before that, people were often transported in the back of a police car, a “Paddy Wagon,” or sometimes in a hearse to the hospital, and help was not administered until they arrived.

Today, EMTs, or Emergency Medical Technicians, are trained to administer IVs, give injections, administer life support, and more. Improved communication systems allow physicians to give directions to EMTs while en-route to the hospital.. The training is rigorous and requires hundreds of hours of education and often state certification.  

Helping people feel better is a great profession. Thankfully there are people who are willing to become EMTs and do this important job.

Maine Warmers' Microwave Neck Warmer

At Maine Warmers we provide products that help people feel better. Al-The-Gator brings comforting heat to relax stiff muscles. Cozy Sheep warm beds on cold winter nights and help stimulate circulation when physical activity is limited due to illness or surgery.

Ten Low Cost Ways to Kick Cabin Fever

I wasn’t sure why I felt so out of sorts, but when my husband said, “Let’s go snowshoeing,” it dawned on me that I was spending too much time inside working.

We gathered up our gear and headed outside. As we sweated our way through the snow, I began to feel refreshed and ready to think of other ways of getting out of the house. Here are ten that came to mind.

1. Call a friend to go for a walk or snowshoe. Go where it is safe from ice and snow – maybe at a school track, the Mall, a beach, or a public park or land trust.
2.  Go to the library and browse through the magazines you never get to see.
3.  Visit a museum. Most museums have a time that is free to the public.
4.   Join a book club.
5.   Take time to write down your goals – things you want to do or see in the coming year, or five years.  Forget what the costs are, and dream. Remember the song? "You have to have a dream to have it come true." Keep in mind that you can change the plans.
6.   Then research a trip or trips that you want to take in the summer.
7.   Finish a project that you have been meaning to complete.
8.   Start a new project that you have always wanted to do.
9.   Write a letter to a friend or family member who may be confined to indoors.
10.   Volunteer at a community event.

As we returned to the car with our snowshoes, collar open and gloves off, I thought, "I don't need a Maine

Maine Warmers' Microwave Hand Warmers

Warmer to keep me warm." In the evening I would need one to relax the stiff muscles.

For those who cannot be active, there are Hand Warmers and FootWarmers to help stimulate circulation and keep them warm. 

The Best Gift for Valentines' Day

Yesterday, a woman I met recently at the gym, asked me if I would like to go snowshoeing, walking, or doing some outside winter activity with her.  She lives near me and wrote her phone number on a sticky note and asked if I would call her. Of course, I said yes.

As I drove home, I remembered that wonderfully warm feeling as a child, when in elementary school, somebody passed me a note that said, “Will you be my friend?” or said, “Can you play today?”

If you want to make someone feel good on Valentines’ Day, pass a note that conveys your friendship, or spend time with them -- laugh, joke, reminisce, or read together. Let them know you enjoy their company. 

Polar Bear Hand and Body Warmer

If you want to give a gift of comfort, without calories, give a Cozy Polar Bear or Sheep microwave warmer. Many stores throughout the US sell Maine Warmers' Comforting Creatures.

  

Two Natural Foods to Help Reduce Inflammation

I read recently about two foods that are anti-inflammatory -- Salmon and Ginger. Used regularly, or taken as supplements (check with your physician first),  they may help ease the pain of arthritis. Check out the ARTHRITIS TODAY article, Nature-Made & Science Approved, in the Sept/Oct 2013 issue. BTW --finely chopped ginger tastes great in a veggie stir-fry.

Scientists are discovering how diet impacts our health, and changing what we eat can improve how we feel. There is no doubt in my mind that when we eat natural foods and skip the manufactured ones, we feel better.

After going on a gluten-free diet to reduce inflammation to ease the pain of arthritis I was able to live without the discomfort I had been experiencing.  A close friend adapted a gluten-free diet to deal with Colitis and experienced positive results, going from taking 16 pills a day and feeling miserable at times to zero pills and feeling great.

If the joints in your arthritic hands are sore and you need some relief, try a pair of reusable hand warmer mittens from Maine Warmers. Also, their Palm Packs and their Cozy Sheep (one of several Comforting Creatures) offer soothing warmth for cold hands or feet.

Sometimes people with arthritis need to use cold therapy to reduce swelling and pain. These microwave heating pads can be frozen and used for gentle ice -- not harsh like ice cubes.

Panda Bears in the Smithsonian

 I happened to read an article in The Smithsonian, Jan 2014, issue last week while in the dentist’s waiting room, about Panda Bears. The author, Susan Orlean, referred to them as “magical animals” and mentioned a YouTube  video called “Wang Dajun babysitting thePanda” or “Wang and the Panda.” 

These videos are fun to watch, as are those of the new Panda baby, Bao Bao,  at the National Zoo.  The author of this article said the Panda is a “unami of animals” which can be translated from the Japanese as "a pleasant savory taste.” I don’t think Ms. Orlean was talking about the Panda on a dinner plate.

Pandas Bears are intriguing and unique. The Webcam at the National Zoo is viewed regularly. I used to peek at the Webcam at the San Diego Zoo at 8 AM on the East Coast which is 5 AM on the West Coast. The Pandas are active at that time. I am not sure why it was so intriguing, but I loved watching these unique animals.

Maine Warmers Panda Bear Body Warmer

If you Google the two places you will probably come up with a link to the WebCam and will get to see these amazing creatures. Or view their photos and videos.

If you want to enjoy cuddling with a Panda, the safest one is Maine Warmers’ Panda Bear. It’s portable and safe. Enjoy it as a bed warmer or hand warmer. Just microwave it for a minute and a half and enjoy soothing warmth.

Ten tips for weathering the cold temperatures – especially if you have to work outside

1. Dress in several layers.
2. Keep your hands warm – wear warm gloves or mittens.
3. Wear a warm hat – most body heat is lost through the head.
4. Stay hydrated – avoiding alcohol.
5. Drink warm liquids – decaf tea, hot chocolate, or warm apple cider.
6. Stay active to promote blood circulation.
7. To avoid dry split lips use lip balm.
8. Avoid split skin around fingernails by keeping moisturizing cream on hands and avoid putting hands in water a lot. Use rubber gloves when cleaning or washing dishes.
9. If you have to be outside make sure to do so for short periods of time. Shivering is a sign that your

   

   Maine Warmers Woolly Bear Neck Warmer

   body is cooling off.
10. Use microwave hand warmers to pre-warm boots before going outside. Maine Warmers are reusable and washable. You can regulate the temperature by how long you microwave them. A Back or Neck Warmer can be used to warm hands and feet as well.

7 Ways to stay warm in winter without boosting the thermostat

Once you get chilled it can be hard to warm up again. We are still in the early stages of winter, and chances are we’ll be looking for ways to stay warm while keeping the thermostat down as energy costs remain high. Be prepared for another cold snap when it arrives.

Neck Warmer under a coat

1. Stay warm outside, then when you come inside you will warm up faster. Wear warm clothing even if you are just going from the car into the grocery store. Keep moving and stay active during the winter. Exercise helps circulation and to keep you warm.

2. Wear a Maine Warmers microwave Neck Warmer under your coat to help prevent that blast of

chill when you first step outside or slide into a cold car.

3. Dress in layers and make one layer a vest to help keep your core warm.

4. Wear a hat, inside or outside, to help keep the heat in.

5. Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

6. If you know an elderly person whose hands are cold while watching TV or reading, give him or her some reusable, microwave Hand Warmers or a Cozy Sheep. They can be micro-waved for pennies and provide comfort for an hour or more. Or use a Back Warmer, which is more versatile, and wrap it around the hands or lay it on top of cold feet.

Cozy microwave sheep keeps hands and body warm

7. Use a heating pad in your bed. Cold sheets will keep you awake until they warm up. Enjoy winter with a little help from Maine Warmers.

The Best Hair Treatment

I asked the lady who cuts my hair what I could do to help keep my hair shiny and soft as I get older and it slowly turns to gray and dries out. She said the best thing to do is to maintain a healthy diet, which of course makes sense but isn’t always easy to do. When work and family keep me running all day and the dinner hour arrives, I am sometime so tired I want to sit down and go hungry.  The thoughts of preparing something healthy – which takes time na/or money – are both unappealing. Usually on my late afternoon travels I can

pick up a salad and some shrimp or pre-cooked chicken to add to it.

After a little chair time I can rally to make something from the cupboard – a can of broth, a little onion, celery, and some canned beans and/or frozen veggies will make do. Frozen spinach is great because it has lots of healthy stuff and it is pre-washed and chopped.

It is probably less expensive to maintain a healthy diet than to spend a lot on hair care – not to mention health care from not taking care of oneself.  When I look at hairdos in the books at the hair salon, it is often the faces of the women that are more appealing than the hairdos.  I know I will never look like those women even if I have the same haircut. But if I can look the best I can that would please me.

Now that some cooler temperatures are approaching and people are buying more Maine Warmers, I’ll be making more suppers from the pantry and easing my tired feet with a pair of foot warmers beforehand. 

Vitamin K for better health

I just read that appropriate levels of vitamin K may help keep arthritis at bay -- an important fact for us Boomers who are approaching the end of middle age. Kale is a great source of vitamin K -- how coincidental! Check out Arthritis Today, Sept-Oct. 2013, p 19 in an article by Catherine Winters for more information about the benefits of kale and how it may prevent some types of arthritis.

I like Kale in soups and stews but don't think I would like it cooked by itself. Somewhere I read that massaging green veggies like cabbage, collards, and kale brings out the sweetness in them that would otherwise be locked in and makes them taste better.

I will have to put Kale on top of the to do list and will try to come up with a recipe for Maine Warmers' Snippets recipe blog. Maine Warmers sells microwave moist heating pads that help ease arthritis pain and help with flexibility.

Back Warmer

Too many food opportunties

Last summer, after discovering Bam Bam Bakery – a gluten-free store in Portland, Maine – I gained ten pounds. They have pizza, sticky yeast buns, Whoopie-pies, and the most decadent, delicious dessert squares, including my favorite -- a truly unique one that is made with blueberries and rosemary. Everything in this bakery is gluten-free.

It took me 6 months to lose the extra pounds, since I tend to gain weight whenever I even think about dieting. I chose instead to focus on feeling better, eating smaller portions, and not feeling deprived when I had to forgo dessert.

With so many daily food opportunities distracting us almost everywhere we go, it can be difficult to avoid foods we should only eat in moderation. We have to pass pastry and coffee shops on our way to work, pizza and sandwich stops, fast food restaurants, home-made food in slow restaurants, and ice-cream stands.

 In a grocery store, on the way to the fish department, we are distracted by pies, cakes, and muffins. On the way to Dairy one can find new goodies on the end caps of the aisles. When we look for a bag of frozen peas, low and behold, there are all kinds of interesting hors d’oeuvres just a few glass doors away. Near the checkout are candies and chips, and if one turns around to avoid looking at them, specialty ice-cream cakes in the end of aisle freezer beckon. Even the magazines sport covers with great big honkin’ chocolate cakes. Some publications show a Photo-shopped skinny model with headlines that we can look like her, then the sub-headings mention easy-to-make wonderful desserts on the inside pages.

How to deal with this? Wear blinders in the grocery store, take a deep breath, and relax. We’ll all be okay without the extras. 

Of course a Maine Warmer will relax tense muscles. Curl up with a back warmer and good book as an alternative to baking a cake or eating dessert. Maine Warmers' Cozy Critters offer comfort without the calories.

PS 

I still go to Bam Bam Bakery to buy bread and an occasional dessert.

Aromatherapy for keeping the mind alert and in shape

The aroma of peppermint may help with memory and alertness, according to a study published on the and a study done at Wheeler Jesuit University.

Variegated Peppermint in my garden

International Journal of Neuroscience

There are conflicting reviews on this subject and one study showed that aromatherapy had no significant impact on health. Maybe the smell of mint will help one become more alert if the mind is set to believe. Like taking a placebo, it could have a psychological benefit.

Common sense tells me that learning new things, interacting with people, remaining physically active, and maintaining a healthy diet are the best and most natural ways to stay alert and keep the mind in shape. 

One thing is for sure. When one is rested one is more alert and physical and mental well-being are more apt to be at optimal levels.

Sleep doesn't always come easy when we are stressed. Medical professionals all agree that heat helps relax tense muscles. A heating pad offers a way to chill out before bed. Maine Warmers Comforting Creatures are unique and whimsical and are microwaveable or freezable. A Dachshund Neck Warmer wraps around the neck, soothing away tension. A variety of Back Warmers may also help relax tense back muscles. They do not have fragrances -- mint or otherwise.

By the ways, a good use for mint is to place snips of fresh mint leaves over a plate of fresh orange slices and dates (pitted and sliced). It makes a healthy, easy dessert.

Dealing with Chronic Back Pain

Pain makes us appreciate life more when we are pain-free. Any pain is the "worst pain" whether it is a toothache, a headache, a hang-nail, or something else. Pain can be our best friend, when it stops us from taking action that causes more damage. As our worst enemy, it becomes an anchor, dragging along with us everywhere, and keeping us from the things we like to do most.

Because Maine Warmers' microwave heating pad are used as a home remedy for pain, I often receive phone calls from people who experience chronic pain. When I met Andrea Bowen, the creator of an audio CD, The Art of Living with Chronic Pain, I never dreamed I would soon have a personal need for her materials. After a back spasm that left me with terrible back pain, I listened to her CD. It helped me confront and deal with a nagging pain, that like a cranky child, had hold of my leg and would not let go.

Traditional Microwave Back Warmer

Andrea's CD on living with pain does not offer a cure, but provides awareness and help in dealing with chronic pain. I was lucky that back surgery has given me the freedom of living normally again with a few minor adjustments in lifestyle. 

I am also pleased to say that my trusty Maine Warmer microwave heating pad for the back brought soothing comfort during the journey to recovery. After surgery, I kept it in the freezer for gentle cold therapy to help reduce swelling. It was soft and gentle -- not harsh like ice cubes -- and made icing more pleasurable than not.

If you know of someone who is living with pain, or is recovering from back surgery, the gift a fun extra large Whale Back Warmer may be just the thing to bring relief and a smile.

Extra Large Microwave Heating Pad for the Back

Kicking the Sugar Habit

We love it in chocolate chip cookies, in ice-cream, and a whole range of delectable desserts. Go to Pinterest as see what gooey beautiful confections make your mouth water and send you clicking through to find the recipes..

White sugar, found in most recipes, comes from sugar cane, a tall grass that is grown in tropical climates. Large quantities of refined sugar can also be extracted from sugar beets, a crop once grown in Maine where the climate is anything but tropical. Small quantities of unrefined sugar can be enjoyed naturally in veggies and fruits.

The health benefits of sugar are zero. It packs energy in the form of carbohydrates, but lacks any nutritional value. Mixed with other foods, sugar adds appeal.

In small amounts sugar adds to quality of life. In large amounts it adds to the risk of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, tooth decay, possibly Macular Degeneration, skin issues, and more. Some claim that sugar is as addicting as heroin. Sweet alternatives to refined sugar are pure maple sugar, agave, and honey. But even with these, moderation is key.

If you find yourself craving sweets, nicotine, alcohol, or some other type of addictive substance, try some relaxation techniques instead – deep breathing, meditation, Yoga, exercise, or even a heating pads to help you physically relax muscles.

Maine Warmers Cozy Panda Bear Heating Pad

Maine Warmers offers microwave heating pads that are portable and safe to use, especially for those with diabetes. Their products range from traditional Neck and Back Warmers  to Hand Warmers a variety of attractive and fun Comforting Creature Warmers.

They offer easy, online ordering, or one may order by phone. 888-735-7485 

Dietary Decisions -- to take supplements or not

Well-meaning family and friends may recommend that you take dietary supplements to help you deal with health issues or pain. Often these people don't know the side-effects or actual active ingredients contained in them. The FDA does not have to approve supplements in order for them to be sold over-the-counter.

Your physician should be the best guide to determine whether or not you should take a supplement. Your eating habits may determine what you need for supplements. If you are on a restricted diet then you may have a vitamin deficiency, and your doctor may recommend a supplement. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and veggies might be better for you than taking supplements.

Age also affects how well you body absorbs vitamins and minerals. A lack of exposure to sunlight or the need to wear sunblock might mean that your levels of vitamin D are low. If you are pregnant, then it is critical that you maintain appropriate levels of  Folic acid. If the vitamin or mineral supplements you are taking are found in natural foods then you may be getting too much by supplementing. 

The National Institutes of Health has a more detailed article on “Dietary Supplements: What you need to know” and a fact sheet about supplements that offers in depth information about supplements.

They also issue Safety Alerts for foods and beverages, dietary supplements, and infant formula.

If you are thinking of taking an herb or supplement to help you relax, try using a little heat therapy instead of taking Velarian. Heat is one of the oldest and safest of home remedies. Maine Warmers microwave heating pads can also be frozen and used for cold therapy to reduce swelling. Try placing a Back Warmer on your feet at bedtime to help you relax and go to sleep. It is versatile and can be used to relax tense back muscles, stiff necks, and cramps or spasms.

Benefits of exercising with arthritis

Studies have shown that resistance training can help reduce the painful effects of arthritis and increase range of motion. Building stronger muscles around the joints, increasing bone density and, burning calories to help keep weight down are all added benefits of exercising with arthritis.

Three great articles from reputable Web sites, extol the benefits of exercise for those with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I found these online after reading an article in Arthritis Today, May-June 2013.

• Exercise helps ease arthritis pain and stiffness
• Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise
• How Weight Lifting Benefits Rheumatoid Arthritis

The idea is to start with a minimal routine and increase activity as your body adapts, and you are able and ready to go to the next level. A physical therapist can be helpful in the initial stages. He or she can tell you what to avoid, depending upon your specific needs. A follow up visit once a year or as needed might give you new information and exercise routines to keep the boredom at bay.

Maine Warmers Cozy Black Sheep microwave heating pad for the back

It only takes a few weeks to begin to feel the progress and see positive changes. You may sleep better and feel less tired during the day, thus feeling more mentally alert. If you have depression you may find it has lessened and that you have a better outlook on life.

When you exercise it is normal to feel some muscle stiffness.  A heating pad can help relax stiff muscles, increase circulation, and help with flexibility. Maine Warmers has Neck and Back Warmers and a variety of Comforting Creatures that offer a fun way to feel better. All of their products can be frozen and used as gentle ice packs.

Physicians offer better communication than medical web sites

Online diagnoses are not the real deal, although web sites, such as the Mayo Clinic, offer a lot of facts and information to help one find the right questions to ask. Your physician is your best bet. Asking reputable people for physician recommendations is also a must – especially when it comes to surgery.

If I had just looked on web sites for medical information about surgery for a bulging disk I would never have been able to decide whether or not that was a serious option for me. Talking with an orthopedic surgeon directly and hearing from the person who would do the surgery about exactly what it entailed, helped me to make the decision to have the procedure that finally eased the pain in my hip and leg. It turned out to be a 45 minute day-surgery with a two week recuperation period. Actually it was longer than two weeks recuperation, but from the moment I came out of the recovery room, I felt cured.

Maine Warmers' microwave heating pad and gentle ice pack for the back

All the Maine Warmers in the world couldn’t help what I had, but now that the surgery is over, I can enjoy the gentle coolness of a frozen back warmer to help reduce the swelling. Maine Warmers microwave heating pads make great ice packs because they are not harsh like ice cubes.

Maine Ice helps reduce swelling on the face an other sensitive areas. For those who have had prostate surgery and need a soft ice pack, check out Maine Ice -- it's not just for the face.

Check out their Comforting Creatures for a fun way to feel better.

Retired Service & Assistance Dogs Make Great Pets

She looked like she might tear your arm off in 2 seconds, but she was one of the sweetest dogs I ever met. A young German Shepherd, she was trained as a police dog because she would not bite anyone. She never graduated to active duty in a police department and was put up for adoption instead.

I helped my daughter-in-law one week end as she walked and fed this dog whose owners had gone away. On a walk, the dog heeled without being told, she stopped and sat at every road and looked both ways before venturing forth. She loved to play. I often thought that if I ever owned a dog I would find one that had been retired from a training program assisting someone who was visually or otherwise physically handicapped.

Guide Dogs of America say, “To be a successful guide dog, many factors including health and willingness to work come into play.  If a dog in our program does not meet all the proper criteria necessary to be a guide dog, they must be removed from the program.”

The waiting list to adopt a retired or what they call a “Career Change” Dog is less than the six year wait for a working guide dog to help with a disability.

They also recommend getting in touch with rescue organizations if you are interested dog adoption. Rescue dogs come with a whole set of issues, but can make great pets.

Other organizations that may help you locate a retired assistance dog:

Canine Companions

Guiding Eyes for the Blind

The Guide Dog Foundation

While you are waiting to adopt a dog, you might consider a Maine Warmers’ Dachshund. It will curl up on

Maine Warmers Cat and Dog microwave heating pads

your lap and keep you warm (if you microwave it for a minute and a half). There aren’t any vet bills to pay, no feeding, walking, dog hair, or picking up doggie doo-doo.

If you prefer cats, the same can be said for Maine Warmers’ Cozy Cat microwave heating pad.

Check out their other Comforting Creatures that provide comforting companionship for people with arthritis and other conditions that cause muscle or joint pain.