CIRS and Pets

Living with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) often brings unique concerns, especially for pet owners. Many individuals managing CIRS wonder if their beloved pets could be affected by similar environmental triggers—such as mold and other biotoxins—that lead to CIRS symptoms in humans.

 

While there is no definitive clinical data available to support CIRS in pets, anecdotally, some of them can experience illness from exposure to mold and Lyme disease, a known co-factor in CIRS cases. Pets, especially dogs and cats, may show symptoms such as respiratory issues, fatigue, and joint pain, all of which can stem from similar biotoxin exposure or Lyme infection.

 

Let’s take a closer look into prevention and treatment options for pets at risk of exposure to mold and Lyme disease, helping CIRS patients protect the health of their furry friends. We’ll also explore best practices for pet maintenance for individuals in active CIRS treatment, to help keep your environment clean.

 

Whether you’re a CIRS patient wondering about your pets’ health or looking for proactive steps to maintain a low-toxin environment, we’ve got you covered with practical insights to help you create a safer space for both you and your pets.

 

What Is CIRS?

 

 

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a complex condition impacting multiple bodily systems and manifesting in an array of symptoms. The root of CIRS lies in an intensified inflammatory response caused by an overactive immune system. Diagnosing this condition is challenging, often requiring a comprehensive set of lab tests and a detailed review of the individual’s health history to capture the full scope of their symptoms and triggers.

 

Due to its varied symptomatology, CIRS is commonly misdiagnosed or inadequately treated. Unlike typical immune disorders, CIRS does not appear in standard autoimmune testing, complicating diagnosis through conventional methods. This condition calls for a specialized approach to accurately identify and manage its underlying causes. Achieving an accurate diagnosis is essential for implementing a treatment plan that addresses the root issues, ultimately supporting effective, long-term recovery for those affected.

 

 

What drives the intense immune response and inflammation commonly seen in CIRS? The primary culprits are biotoxins—harmful substances that can spark and amplify CIRS symptoms. These toxins can come from several sources, including:

 

• Water-Damaged Buildings: About 80% of CIRS cases are linked to environments affected by water damage, where mold mycotoxins, bacteria, and other irritants thrive. These particles, including remnants of dead mold, can trigger significant inflammation in sensitive individuals, impacting both mental and physical health.

 

• Insect Bites: Certain insect bites, particularly from ticks and spiders, can introduce pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) and Babesia microti. Additionally, recluse spider venom may cause chronic health issues that can trigger CIRS in those predisposed.

 

• Contaminated Seafood: Consuming tropical reef fish contaminated with ciguatera toxin, often due to harmful algae blooms, can be another source of biotoxin exposure. Larger reef fish accumulate these toxins from smaller fish, posing a risk to consumers.

 

• Toxic Water Exposure: Inhaling or coming into contact with water affected by harmful algae, such as cyanobacteria and Pfiesteria, can initiate the inflammatory response seen in CIRS.

 

• Other Biotoxin Sources: Additional potential triggers include specific vaccines, viral infections, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), endotoxins, and actinomycetes, all of which may contribute to CIRS onset and progression.

 

 

Biotoxins are microscopic particles with the ability to penetrate cell membranes, making them difficult to detect with standard blood tests. These toxins typically enter the body through inhalation, but they can also be introduced by consuming contaminated foods, through insect bites, or by contact with polluted water.

 

Not everyone exposed to biotoxins, such as mold, will develop Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Genetic predispositions and life events play a crucial role in the likelihood of developing biotoxin-related illnesses. Factors like severe illness, surgeries, high fevers, pregnancy, heavy biotoxin exposure, or traumatic experiences can set off a cytokine storm, potentially activating CIRS in those genetically susceptible, especially individuals with certain HLA-DR genes. Consequently, CIRS may arise unexpectedly at any age. It’s worth noting that even in the absence of symptoms, individuals aren’t necessarily protected, making genetic testing valuable for assessing CIRS risk.

 

While many people can naturally detoxify biotoxins, those with a genetic susceptibility to CIRS face immune systems that struggle to recognize and eliminate these toxins. This can lead to biotoxins accumulating in the body, causing chronic inflammation and a range of long-term health issues.

 

For a more detailed understanding of CIRS, click here.

 

Pro-Tip: If you think you’re suffering from CIRS, start with our White Glove Service for comprehensive care.

 

What Is the Shoemaker Protocol?

 

 

The Shoemaker Protocol, developed by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, is a meticulously crafted, step-by-step treatment plan for CIRS and other conditions triggered by biotoxins. Recognized as the only peer-reviewed, clinically validated method for treating biotoxin illnesses—including those stemming from mold exposure—the protocol systematically addresses the complex inflammatory responses that drive CIRS symptoms. Each stage in the protocol is purposefully sequenced to address the varied effects of biotoxin exposure, providing a structured approach to reduce symptoms and achieve lasting remission.

 

The protocol’s first step is essential: removing ongoing exposure to biotoxins. This may involve mold remediation, avoiding contaminated environments, or implementing additional environmental controls, such as air filtration and ventilation. Proper pet care plays a crucial role here, as pets can carry mold spores or other contaminants from outdoor exposure into the home. We’ll touch on this more in the upcoming sections to support this critical first step.

 

Following exposure reduction, the protocol focuses on clearing biotoxins from the body with binders such as Cholestyramine (CSM) or Welchol, which work to capture and eliminate lingering toxins. Subsequent stages aim to restore immune and endocrine balance by correcting inflammatory markers, stabilizing cytokine levels, and addressing hormone deficiencies. This sequential approach helps recalibrate the body’s immune response, significantly reducing CIRS symptoms and paving the way to recovery and remission.

 

Pet CIRS Considerations and Maintenance

 

 

Maintaining a clean and safe environment is essential for those managing CIRS, and proper pet care can play a surprisingly important role in reducing cross-contamination risks. Pets can inadvertently carry mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants into the home, contributing to environmental triggers. The following best practices outline effective pet maintenance steps to help minimize biotoxin exposure, ensuring your living space remains a supportive, low-toxin environment for healing and recovery.

 

• Pets That Go Outside: It’s ideal to wipe down paws for pets that return inside from the outdoors – this helps minimize mold, endotoxins, and other contaminants commonly found outside. You can use non-toxic wet wipes, paw cleaners, paw shampoos, etc. Since pets can have loose stools once in a while, you may also want to consider wiping down their private areas after going outside as well to help minimize any issues.
• Dog Poop Maintenance: Endotoxins grow on waste including pet poop. Since some individuals can experience exposure by picking up moderate to large amounts of dog poop in the yard, it can be better to have someone else do this for you or opt for personal protection equipment (PPE) to minimize any potential exposure.
• Cat Litter Box Maintenance: Since the litter box can be a significant source of endotoxins, it’s best to keep this in the garage or outdoor area if possible. Ideally, keep a high-quality air filter such as Air Oasis iAdapt nearby, remove poop daily, and always take all poop directly to your outside trashcan.
• Pet Laundry: Pet laundry such as bedding, harnesses, and so on should generally be washed once a week during active treatment. This can be increased or decreased based on how active your pets are and how much time outdoors they spend.
• Pet Hygiene: Pet hygiene will also vary based on the pet’s breed, how much time it spends outdoors, and how much time it spends in unknown/less-than-ideal environments. Similar to laundering our clothes, it’s best to bathe your pet if they spend time inside a water-damaged building. Regular grooming and brushing are also recommended.
• Pet Hair Maintenance: Since pet hair can add to your overall dust load and act as a potential food source for mold, regular HEPA vacuuming is recommended. You can also opt for a HEPA robot vacuum for additional maintenance.        

 

Lyme Prevention

Unfortunately, pets are susceptible to Lyme disease. While dogs are more prone to Lyme, cats can get Lyme disease as well. Since pets can also bring ticks into our homes or come into direct contact with us, it’s important to practice prevention.

 

Most conventional flea and tick prevention products, including medications, collars, sprays, and topical treatments, are registered under the EPA due to their pesticide content. These neurotoxins have a multitude of adverse effects. Not only are these dangerous for pets, but we also want to minimize our exposure to them.

 

Non-Toxic Tick Prevention Options for Pets

 

 

The following are non-toxic rick prevention options recommended by a holistic vet:

 

• Species-Appropriate Diet: Feeding your pets a species-appropriate diet helps with overall health while also making them less attractive to bugs. Dogs and cats are carnivores, so feeding them a raw, carnivore diet is ideal.
  
• Essential Oils: If you’re making your own blend, make sure you find pet-safe essential oils or find a species-appropriate pre-made option online. Some holistic vet recommendations include eucalyptus, citronella, lemongrass, geranium, catnip oil, and any other citrus options.
• Non-Toxic Topical and Home Products: There are various non-toxic or cleaner options for topical and home products to explore. Consult with your trusted vet to find a non-conventional alternative you feel comfortable using.
• Natural Supplements: Natural supplement alternatives such as Bug Off Garlic Granules and Earth Animal (some of the ingredients are sourced internationally so it can’t be 100% verified but is still a better option compared to conventional products) are also available.
• Tick Prevention Hygiene: Regular shampooing with a non-toxic soap followed by a vinegar rinse with 1 cup apple cider vinegar in 1-quart water, particularly after spending time outdoors.
• Diatomaceous Earth: Dusting food-grade diatomaceous earth into pet coats and outdoor areas they spend time in is another option.

 

Lyme Treatment for Pets

Lyme testing in pets can be even more complicated compared to testing in people, making it essential to work with an experienced Lyme vet. Similar to humans, antibiotics are recommended for acute Lyme treatment in pets. However, natural herbal alternatives are available for pets suffering from chronic Lyme disease.

 

Adjunct therapies, such as ozone therapy for pets, are becoming more popular and widely available.

 

CIRS Treatment for Pets

If you suspect that your pet has either CIRS or Lyme, it’s important to work with a knowledgeable vet alongside your practitioner. Since mold care in pets is very limited, you may see options such as Veterinary Mycotoxin Panels and natural binder options. While natural binders may help some pets with symptom improvements, these binders have a different charge than Cholestyramine (CSM)/Welchol and aren’t as ideal for detoxing biotoxins.

 

There isn’t much literature or data currently available regarding the Shoemaker Protocol for pets. However, one study shows the successful use of CSM for treating a dog from cyanobacterial toxicosis (cyanobacteria is one of the biotoxins that can cause/exacerbate CIRS).

 

For specific CIRS treatment pet recommendations and the remainder of this content, please join our CIRS Group.

 

Closing Thoughts on CIRS and Pets

In closing, proper pet maintenance is a vital component of supporting the first step of the Shoemaker Protocol: removing biotoxin exposure. Daily maintenance, weekly cleaning of pet bedding, and mitigating endotoxin exposure opportunities all help create a safer, cleaner environment that supports your recovery journey.

 

If you suspect your pet may be affected by mold illness or either acute or chronic Lyme disease, know there are effective veterinary treatments available to alleviate symptoms and improve your pet’s quality of life. Early intervention and a partnership with both an experienced vet and your CIRS practitioner can make a significant difference.

 

Pets are extraordinary companions, offering support, comfort, and connection during challenging times. The added tasks of pet maintenance may feel overwhelming on top of all the other cleaning requirements, but with time and the right approach, they’re entirely manageable.

 

Pets bring immense joy and can be a profound source of strength and encouragement in your healing journey. So, don’t let the extra care discourage you from having a pet by your side. With mindful management and a few adjustments, you can enjoy the companionship of your pet without compromising your progress. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and with every step, both you and your pet can thrive together on the path to remission.

 

 

Pro-Tip: Are you looking for more in-depth practitioner resources and a like-minded community to support you through your CIRS journey? Join our exclusive CIRS Support Group for the latest research, step-by-step protocol tools, and support to successfully achieve root-cause healing.

 

Work With Our Trusted CIRS Practitioners

The Nutrition with Judy practice is honored to be a trusted CIRS practitioner support serving clients from around the globe. We’re passionate about helping our clients achieve root-cause healing in order to lead the best quality of life possible that’s nearly symptom-free. Our team is dedicated to finding the answers our patients need. We welcome you to explore our free resources and are always available to support you through personalized protocols. If you’re interested in working one-on-one with our CIRS nutritional therapy team to support you through your journey, our CIRS Support Package delivers the support and accountability for achieving root-cause healing.