Dr. Ava Frick Animal HTMA Test | Nutrition Minerals and Heavy Metal Toxicity Test | Holistic Healthcare for Dogs & Cats

Product Summary

Your pet's health shouldn't be a guessing game. You can be proactive and start protecting your beloved pets today to prevent disease & illness. Knowing is better. This is a simple and non-invasive way to discover if your pet is deficient in essential nutrients or has an overabundance of heavy metals toxicity in the body. When vital nutrients are missing, or have toxic overload from a pet’s body, optimal health cannot be gained.

Even if you’re feeding a fresh food diet, there is a possibility the body can still be lacking in important nutrients. Because these factors below could affect the absorption of nutrients. 

• Inflammation
• Certain health conditions
• Daily stresses
• Yearly vaccinations
• Pharmaceutical medications (including flea and tick medications)
• Wrong diet/supplementations
• Poor soil quality/food qualities
• High-processed food

Symptoms of nutritional deficiencies can be minor and be mistaken for other illnesses. Most people think their pet may be healthy since they may not notice any symptoms unless they are experiencing a severe problem over a long period. Some common symptoms are:

• Bad breath
• Body odor
• Dandruff
• Excessive shedding
• Flatulence
• Hair loss
• Dull coat
• Inconsistent or unusual bowel movements
• Increased allergies
• Weight loss
• Itching
• Rashes and skin issues
• Obesity

Dr. Ava Frick Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis for dogs and cats is a mineral Blueprint of one’s biochemistry. A standard test, used around the world for the biological monitoring of trace elements and toxic metals in humans and animals species. Fur, like all other body tissues, contains minerals that are deposited as the fur grows. A sample of fur cut close to the skin provides information about the mineral activity in the fur that took place over the past three to four months. It provides pertinent information on metabolic rate, energy levels, sugar and carbohydrate tolerance, stage of stress, immune system, and glandular activity.

Dr. Ava Frick animal HTMA test can assist you with:

• Finding out what minerals are missing or access in your pet’s diet
• Detecting the levels of harmful heavy metals
• Nutritional assessment, supplements, and dietary recommendations by Dr. Ava Frick
• Correlates lab results with submitted symptoms, and directs to potential problem areas
• Detects early warning signs of potential health problems such as diabetes, kidney disease, and even cancer, by looking at indicators for Adrenal Stress, Inflammation, Blood Sugar Handling, and more
• Detects early warning signs of body system degradation

If you have questions, we encourage you to contact us. Dr. Ava Frick’s (DVM, CAC, FAIS) mission includes speaking and teaching the world how we might change the healing paradigm for all people and animals on Earth. Her combination of whole-food nutrition, chiropractic, exercise therapy, and microcurrent therapy gives a new perspective on how to heal pets.

We encourage you to let Dr. Ava Frick animal Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis be your first option rather than your last resort.

What's included in the Kit?

The Kit comes with :

• 1 x HTMA test result for one animal.
• 1 x Nutritional Balancing with Tissue Mineral Analysis PDF reference file.
• 1 x Result interpretation and recommendation by Dr. Ava Frick for one animal.
• 1 x Email follow-up with Dr. Ava Frick on questions about your result for one animal.
• 1 x Collect and Send Samples Guide.
• 4 x Alcohol wipes
• 1 x Paper Scale for one animal.
• 1 x White Paper Envelope for one animal.
• 1 x FedEx Return Envelope (if you have option for "FedEx For Me").
• 1 x Animal Hair Analysis Information Form for one animal.
• 1 x Online Clinical Animal Nutrition Survey Form for one animal.
• 1 x Online Animal Information Form for one animal.

Product Video

Dr. Ava Frick HTMA Test with JOOF.

Watch Dr. Ava Frick talk about Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis:

Collect and Send Samples Guide

Overview:

1. Purchase the test kit via our website.
2. You will receive the kit within 3-4 working days.
3. Fill up the Animal Hair Analysis Information form provided.
4. Fill up the Clinical Animal Nutrition Survery form online.
5. Fill up the Animal Information form online.
6. Shower your animal 12-24hrs before hair collection.
7. Use a clean electric clipper or scissors to collect your hair samples.
8. Place the Hair Samples on the scale until the scale tips over.
9. Place the Hair Samples into the provided (White) envelope.
10. Label the (White) envelope with your Pet’s Name, Owner Name, Type of Animal, Color of Fur, and if male or female.
11. Place the (White) envelope into the (White) mailer bag.
12. If you have chosen to send the samples back to USA Yourself, Make arrangements with your own preferred courier vendor or follow our VPost (Singpost) sending instructions in another tab and send it to the address given.
13. If you have chosen to send the samples back to USA via our FedEx For Me option, Place your White mailer bag into the provided FedEx envelope. And click here to schedule for your FedEx pickup.
14. Upon receiving your samples in USA, the results will be sent to you via email within 6-7 weeks.

Optional - Upon receiving your results, if you need further help, you may consider to work further with Dr. Ava Frick on her 15min consult that also comes with an additional 1 (one) x follow-up email.

Or, if you are looking for a nutritionist or full one on one support for your pet's customised diet, supplements, holistic pet care and more, you may also consider a consult with our certified professional nutritionist here.

How to collect your pet's and hair?

The accuracy of a mineral analysis depends upon many factors. While the laboratory is responsible for the technical aspects of the test, the results will only be as good as the raw material or sample that is received. For this reason, the more care that is exercised by the person sampling the hair, the better the results will be.

Remeber the “newest” hair contains the most recent data. So, the closer the sample is to the skin, the better the data. For this reason, we recommend safely using a electric trimmer to get close to the skin. If you cant do so safely, you can also use scissors.

You will need the following items to get started.

• Your own Scissors or electric clippers.
• Provided alcohol wipes (if you need to clean your tools before hand)
• Provided cardboard scale (fold down the sides to the scale).
• Provided paper white envelope.
• Provided submission forms x 1
• Provided online submission forms x 2.
• Provided transparent slot-in
• Provided white mailer bag x 1.
• Provided Fedex envelope x 1 (if you have selected "Fedex For Me")

Step 1 :

• First, you need to wash your pet with a natural non-toxic shampoo, mild pet shampoo or a gentle baby shampoo. This is to remove any excess dirt or contaminants that could impact lab analysis. If you don't want to give your pet a full bath, you can just bathe the sample collection area.

• NOTE : If you use a medicated shampoo, be aware some shampoos have elements that can be absorbed into the hair follicle and may appear at a high level without being present in the body. Some shampoos contain zinc for instance. 

Step 2 :

• Try to keep your pet clean and wait at least 12 hours from washing to collect the hair sample. The optimal time to collect your pet's hair is between 12-24 hours after a bath.
• If your circumstances prevent you from being able to wait that long, the sample may be collected as early as 4 hours after bathing. This allows the hair to re-equilibrate after washing.

• NOTE : If bathing is not something you can do, you may also use the provided alcohol wipes to clean the area you wish to collect from.

Step 3 :

• We recommend cleaning your cutting tool (scissors or electric trimmer) with rubbing alcohol. Do not use oils or other chemicals.
• Make sure your cutting tools are cleaned of any other hair or fur before use. 

• NOTE : Steel scissors are better than aluminum scissors. If plated scissors are used, be sure the plating is not peeling off, which could contaminate the sample.

• NOTE : Shedding tools are less accurate for collection since they tend to remove old growth hair (that has already fallen out). In order to get the most recent data, we need the most recent hair. However, based on the shedding tool you own, if the tool captures hair closest to the body and you can distinguish the part of the hair that was closest to the body (to discard the excess beyond 1.5” in length), then a shedding tool can be used for collection. But as a general, we DO NOT recommend using shedding tools.

Step 4 :

• We recommend collecting hair from their belly or chest for aesthetic reasons. You can choose where you'd like to collect the hair from.
• Importantly, this hair cut or shave is less invasive than drawing blood from your pet with a needle, and the hair will always grow back.

• NOTE : All hair is equal. It is more important that you send in the appropriate weight of hair vs. where that hair is cut from.

Step 5 :

• Included in your order is a paper scale. To assemble, fold down both sides of the scale and let it rock on its edges.
• Once the hair is trimmed, place the hair on the scale provided. Place hair on the left side until the scale tips over.

• NOTE : For long haired animals, be sure to cut off the "Less Recent Ends" of any hair that is over 1 to 1 ½ inches long prior to weighing.

• NOTE : Unless your scale is significantly damaged, it is engineered to tip over when you have placed the appropriate weight of hair on the left side. It may seem like your scale may never tip, but it will. Keep adding hair until it tips. If your scale is significantly damaged, use a clean teaspoon to measure instead, you may collect about 2 teaspoon to be safe in this case.

Step 6 :

• Place the hair into the white envelope provided. 
• Label the (White) envelope with your Pet’s Name, Owner Name, Type of Animal, Color of Fur, and if male or female.
• Place the (White) Envelope and the Animal Hair Analysis Information form into the transparent slot-in.
• Place the transparent slot-in into the white mailer bag provided.

Step 7 :

• If you have chosen "Ship Myself" package, send the white mailer bag to the provided address in the USA via your own courier vendor.
• If you have chosen "FedEx For Me" package, place the white mailer bag into the FEDEX envelope provided.

• Fill up the required "Clinical Animal Nutrition Survey" and " Animal Information" form below or click here to access the online form.

Step 9 :

• Wait for results to come back to you after 6-7 weeks.

How to send your samples from Singapore?

• If you have chosen to send the samples back to USA Yourself, Look for your preferred courier vendor to send the samples back to USA with the address given below.
• Or you may option to use VPost (Singpost) International registered service which cost only SGD$11.90 which is the cheapest route that we could recommend.

You can find step by step into guiding you how to send via VPost (Singpost) in the next tab.

• If you have chosen to send the samples back to USA via our FedEx services, Please insert your White mailer bag into the provided FedEx envelope.
• Once your FedEx envelope is ready for collection, you may contact your local FedEx directly for pickup based on your given tracking number or fill up the form below for us to schedule for your FedEx pickup.

Kindly note that FedEx Service is only applicable for Singapore and Malaysia address only.

How to send your samples from Malaysia?

• If you have chosen to send the samples back to USA Yourself, Look for your preferred courier vendor to send the samples back to USA with the address given below.

• If you have chosen to send the samples back to USA via our FedEx services, Please insert your White mailer bag into the provided FedEx envelope.
• Once your FedEx envelope is ready for collection, you may contact your local FedEx directly for pickup based on your given tracking number or fill up the form below for us to schedule for your FedEx pickup.

 

Kindly note that FedEx Service is only applicable for Singapore and Malaysia address only.

How to send your samples from other countries?

• Look for your preferred courier vendor to send the samples back to USA with the address given below.
• Or you may email us to see if our FedEx Service could be extended for your country.

Address to send your samples to:

• Post Mail : Dr. Ava Frick, 37608 N. Cave Creek Road, Suite 103, Cave Creek, Arizona 85331, USA.

• Other Courier : Dr. Ava Frick, 37608 N. Cave Creek Road, Suite 103, Cave Creek, Arizona 85331, USA.

Send via VPost (Singpost) Guide

You can find step by step into guiding you how to send via VPost (Singpost) in this tab.

*However do note that what we guided you is to declare an inaccurate actual form of the item sent, in order to bypass the custom clearance in the USA, as Hair is kind of considered a restricted items under VPost rules, therefore there's still a little risk you need to be aware of, it can be hold up or being discarded if custom officer decided to throughly check your package and finds out that it is a restricted item. But usually it does goes through the customs ok.

*Also note that we won't be liable for any package being hold up or discard at custom, we are just suggesting the cheapest way you can send your samples in and also stating the risk you might encounter.

VPOST STEP BY STEP GUIDE.

1. Visit https://www.ezy2ship.net/
2. Click CREATE SHIPMENT.
3. Fill in the Brief Information and Shipment Details.
   • Select USA.
   • Postcode, 85331.
   • Select SMALL PACKET.
   • Delcared value, SGD 5.
   • Weight, 0.1.
   • Length, 9.
   • Width, 9.
   • Height, 13.
4. Select International Registered Service (recommended).
5. Fill in the Full Shipment Details.
   • Leave the VAT and Sender Reference EMPTY.
   • Type of goods, GIFT.
   • Item description, ENVELOPE
   • Declared value, 5
   • Country of manufacture, SINGAPORE.
   • Item weight, 0.1
   • Quantity, 1
   • USA and enter postcode 85331.
   • Select small packet and enter delcared value SGD 5.
   • Enter weight 0.1, length 9, width 9, height 13.
6. Fill in Delivery Details.
   • Fill in your details.
   • Select your nearest POST OFFICE BRANCH.
   • Recipient details - Name, DR. AVA FRICK.
   • Recipient details - Address, 37608 N. CAVE CREEK ROAD, SUITE 103.
   • Recipent details - City, CAVE CREEK.
   • Recipient details - State, ARIZONA.
   • Recipient details - Country, U.S.A.
   • Recipient details - Postcode, 85331
7. Checkout your shipment.
8. Select your payment method.
9. Visit your nearest POST Office Branch Counter for printing of label and send!

About Dr. Ava Frick and HTMA

Dr. Ava Frick began studying Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis in 2005. HTMA is a scientific laboratory test that uses a hair sample, a DNA blueprint of the past 90 days, and through spectrophotometry, can determine the mineral and toxic metal levels within the tissue of that individual. Every mineral is connected to the others, interlocking and shifting, to keep the body functioning best. It allows knowing the nutrients that are lacking or in excess. Doing this test takes a huge chunk of guesswork going on inside each body. It becomes like a crystal ball, revealing what was going on in the past that got one to this point, and what the future might be if changes are not made.

Dr. Ava Frick also published a research paper on this topic in the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association in 2017, and written an educational book that teaches doctors how to integrate this wonderful science and test into their practice’s nutrition model, and am considered one of the leading experts on this topic in the veterinary field. Read Dr. Ava Frick Animal HTMA Research Papers in AHVMA

WHY DR. AVA FRICK USE FUR MINERAL TESTING TO CUSTOMIZE NUTRITION PROGRAMS FOR YOUR ANIMALS.

There are many ways to assess nutritional status including the clinical animal nutrition survey, iridology, kinesiology, dietary guidelines, computer analysis, blood tests, etc. One often missed method is by measuring tissue mineral levels. Here are 12 reasons that validate the comprehensive information gleaned from this testing method.

• A Window into the Cells

Nutritional physiology begins at the cellular level, not within blood or any other location. What you feed your pet is only part of the picture. More importantly, is what is actually reaching the body cells. Tissue mineral analysis (TMA) is unique in that it provides cellular activity information – the main site of nutritional metabolism.

• Assessing Organ, Gland and Tissue Function

Levels and ratios of tissue minerals relate to the activity of specific organs and glands. By calculating rations on a TMA, the function of major glands and organs can be assessed, often long before abnormalities appear on radiographs or blood tests.

• Constructing a Picture of Individual Body Chemistry

The correct interpretation is key to constructing a metabolic picture of the way your pet’s body is functioning and responding to stress. There is no other simple and inexpensive test that gives the doctor so much valuable information about overall body cellular physiology and function.

• Determining Oxidation Types

Dr. George Watson discovered that some bodies burn food at a more rapid rate than normal, and some at a slower rate. Knowing the metabolism, or oxidation rate as he called it, can help determine which foods are most needed, and which nutrients would be most helpful to restore balance.

• Detecting Toxic Metals

Toxic metals are a serious problem, contributing to many metabolic disorders including infections, heart disease, allergies, lethargy, erratic or behavior changes, digestive disturbances, cancer and diabetes. While routine blood tests cannot detect chronic heavy metal poisoning, TMA is one of the few methods by the Environmental Protection Agency for detecting toxic metals in the body.

• Rebuilding the Body’s Energy Mechanism

Having an adequate energy level is essential for health. All body activities including healing depend upon adequate energy synthesis. TMA can be used to assess the efficiency of the energy system of the body including carbohydrate/sugar and citric acid cycles, and to recommend nutrients and foods that will assist in rebuilding the energy system.

• Understanding Emotions and Behavior

Biochemical imbalances can contribute to many mental and emotional conditions. There is no other tool that even comes close to TMA to predict, explain, and offer nutritional solutions for such common complaints as fearfulness, anxiety, hyperactivity, phobias, insomnia, and cognitive dysfunction.

• Identifying Trends

One of the most useful benefits of TMA is the ability to identify trends before they occur, so that action can be taken to avoid them. I like to call it a Crystal Ball. Twenty or more trends can be identified from a properly interpreted TMA. The ability to identify trends alone makes TMA an invaluable test. This is the way to help your new pet not go down the same trail that your others have in the past.

• Monitoring Progress

A common problem in nutritional therapy is determining if the animal is actually improving, especially if some conditions persists or new issues arise. Repeat TMA tests compared to previous tests can often provide answers as to whether improvement is occurring, why some conditions persist, and what to expect in the future.

• Exact Amounts of Supplements and Proportions of Foods

One problem in designing nutrition programs is determining how much and which nutrients and foods to recommend. Because of its mathematical nature, fur TMA offers a way to determine supplements needed and proportions of food ingredients and types with greater accuracy.

• Superiority Over Blood Tests

Blood tests will always be valuable to determine cholesterol, liver, and kidney function and many other parameters. However, blood tests are incapable of providing the information that we get from TMA. Mineral levels in blood are ten times less than they are in the tissues, making measurement difficult. Also, blood levels are kept within very narrow limits by the body for various reasons, so that reading vary but little and less information can be gleaned. Blood test are subject to daily fluctuations due to foods eaten, medications, activity, and emotional states, etc. Fur analysis will not vary from day-to-day, and provides a long-term metabolic blueprint. Understanding this difference avoids much confusion.

• Accuracy and Reliability

Computerized mass spectrometer testing is a very technical system that can yield accurate results. Analyzing samples that are not washed at the laboratory prior to testing gives the truest mineral levels within the body. Washing samples will reduce the levels of loosely bound minerals and effect the final report.

Product FAQ

Q : Why Hair?

A : Hair is formed from clusters of matrix cells that make up the follicles. During the growth phase the hair is exposed to the internal metabolic environment such as the circulating blood, lymph and extracellular fluids.

As the hair continues to grow and reaches the surface of the skin, its outer layers harden, locking in the metabolic products accumulated during this period of hair formation. This biological process provides us with a blueprint and lasting record of nutritional metabolic activity that has occurred during this time.

Determining the levels of the elements in the hair is a highly sophisticated analytical technique. When performed to exacting standards and interpreted correctly, it may be used as a screening aid for mineral deficiencies, excesses and/or biochemical imbalances.

Q : How is this HTMA test different from blood, or urine testing?

A : While urine and blood tests show the recent and current body status, hair represents a longer time frame. We are looking for a pattern; not for a snapshot.

Blood is a snapshot. Blood shows a snapshot of what is happening in the dog right now. While this is important information, it doesn’t supply an accurate analysis of the mineral levels over a period of time. The blood will “borrow” nutrients from cells and tissues to create homeostasis in the blood. Blood is like the first kid in line at the ice cream store. He gets what he wants before anyone else.

“Blood is homeostatic. That is, blood has the capacity to balance itself in essential minerals at the expense of cell and tissue reserves of these same minerals. – Dr. Rick Malter, PhD, The Strands of Health, 2003.

For example, a dog’s cells and tissues might be losing essential minerals such as sodium and potassium while the blood reveals what appears to be normal levels of these two minerals. However, a dog might show signs and symptoms of low potassium and sodium deficiency, but the blood results are normal. Blood results can be a late indicator of a problem. 

“The balances between these essential nutrient minerals are more easily disrupted in the cells and tissues than they are in the blood. Deficiencies and excesses of minerals are more readily observed in an HTMA than in a blood analysis or urinalysis. Therefore, an HTMA is often an earlier indicator of a trend towards health problems (physical and psychological) than is a blood analysis or urinalysis. This fact is very important, especially when considering disease prevention or health maintenance nutritional supplement program.” – Dr. Rick Malter, Ph.D. The Strands of Health, 2003.

HTMA testing system is a different way of viewing body function. Your pet’s hair sample gives us a map of where your pet has been metabolically, and what the future could be like if nothing changed. Because the testing methodology and output is different, blood testing methods of interpretation are inapplicable and not analogous to the information you will receive from the HTMA test.

HTMA can detect minerals and toxic metals at levels up to 10,000 times smaller than what a blood test can find. Therefore, HTMA can report what a blood test may not even see.

Q : Will the test show if my pet has allergies?

A : This test does not specifically test for allergies or stomach sensitivity. Instead, HTMA results look to identify precursors or etiologies to clinical symptoms or illnesses.

What does this mean? HTMA take a whole-body approach and try to uncover the root cause of why your pets may be dealing with stomach sensitivity in the first place. It could be completely unrelated to your pet’s stomach or digestive system. The body is a complex system and everything is interconnected. The only way to learn is to test!

However, if you wish to find out about what food ingredients or envrionmental intolerance your pets has, please consider our Glacier Peak Pet Intolerance Test instead.

Q : How is this different from other hair analysis products?

A : Because your pet's body relies on a complex balance of nutrients and functions in order to perform optimally, singling out individual mineral levels doesn't tell the whole story of what is going on in your pet's body. In fact, reading lab results in that manner may be inaccurate. For this reason, you will be getting a TMA Report graph Analysis with Interpretation from Dr. Ava Frick. It also comes with 1 (one) x follow-up email with Dr. Ava Frick.

Q : What does this test for?

A : Testing your pet’s hair reveals what is happening with their functional and nutritional health. You'll gain valuable insights into your pet's Blood Sugar Handling, Thyroid Performance, Energy Levels, Autonomic Balance, Inflammation, and Adrenal Stress. These help Dr. Ava Frick include information about how their thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands are functioning, as well as how your pets deals with carbohydrates, sugars, available protein, and overall digestion.

It also identify the presence of toxic metals in your pup's body, which can affect liver and kidney function, personality, behavior, energy levels, immune system strength, and stress response.

It also tests your pet's metabolic function or oxidation rate. This refers to how quickly the body converts food into energy. Dr. Ava Frick will give you guidance on Diet based on your pet's test results.

The information tested evaluates major body systems to determine which systems show the highest likelihood of concern, and give guidance about what you should focus on to optimize your pet's health.

Using all of this information, Dr. Ava Frick can help explain why certain conditions have occurred, determine your pet's current health status, predict what could happen if nothing is corrected, and provide dietary and supplement recommendations.

Q: What are the elements that are being tested?

A : Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Copper, Zinc, Phosphorus, Iron, Manganese, Chromium, Selenium, Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium, Lead, Aluminum, Nickel.

Q : Does this diagnose diseases in my dog?

A : Disease can arise due to a number of nutritional factors, including but not limited to lack of or excess minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, and enzymes. All of these can impact your pet's health. Dr. Ava Frick believe that if your pet’s body has everything it needs, then your pet can better defend themselves against any potential disease.

Dr. Ava Frick finds areas of imbalance or distress, so that you can adjust your pet's care before any red flags develop — and before these conditions can cause lasting damage!

This information can be used to better understand your pet's health and the factors that may put their wellness at risk. Though Dr. Ava Frick is doing the assessment from the results, Dr. Ava Frick do not provide a medical diagnosis based on this test. You should talk to your holistic veterinarian if you are concerned about a specific medical condition in your dog.

Q : Does this replace a vet?

A : Dr. Ava Frick wanted to help more dogs than she could directly see in her office. This collarboration with JOOF was created to completely revolutionize how petcare works, starting with your pet.

Traditional medicine typically treats imbalance in the body only after it has become a problem, disease, or condition. By taking a proactive, functional approach to pet health (which is a different approach than what is found in most veterinary practices), Dr. Ava Frick look to identify precursors or etiologies to clinical symptoms or illnesses. Dr. Ava Frick on over 20 years of veterinary experience that reads your pet's intake survey and lab results, and gives you actionable insights into what is going on with your pet's health, and what to do about it.

Most vets only focus on blood testing, and have no experience interpreting mineral analysis or understanding the causal relationships between illness and mineral imbalances in the body. While the interest and knowledge among traditional veterinarians is rising, many have yet to be trained in how these test results precisely reflect body function or how to best interpret. Unless your veterinarian is well-versed in this science and technology, they might not be in a position to give you informed guidance on HTMA reporting.

Unfortunately, some vets may also resist the data since these labs aren't an area they are familiar with, or have any formal training with. Dr. Ava Frick welcome all vets to reach out to her at DrFrick@LifeExtendMethod.com to clarify on the data that she provides for your individual animal. Dr. Ava Frick's fur analysis assessment is available to you so that it is easy enough for anyone to understand.

While revolutionary, convenient, and affordable, Dr. Ava Frick's HTMA test does not replace the importance of a veterinarian in your pet's life. It is a magnifying glass in your toolbox to get a more robust picture of what is happening in your pet’s body. With Dr. Ava Frick, we believe that better data equals a better pet by creating a data-backed, overall picture of your pet's health.

So, for example, if your pet's results suggest high levels of adrenal stress or inflammation, your vet might use these findings to treat clinical signs that they are seeing in your pet.

Q : Can you tell me more about the lab?

A : The lab Dr. Ava Frick is working with, is a CLIA Certified Laboratory. This certification means that the lab facility has met or exceeded the requirements of an inspection conducted by the Department of Health & Human Services.

This lab that Dr. Ava Frick works with, is among the top labs in the hair tissue mineral analysis field, setting the professional standards that have been emulated for decades by national and international hair testing and interpretation laboratories.

Laboratory quality control procedures including known controls are tested at the beginning, middle and end of every batch of hair samples to ensure the accuracy of the results. Any reading that is out of a normally expected range is automatically retested, provided sufficient hair is available for a second sample.

Methodology is important too. The laboratory Dr. Ava Frick is working with, is one of only two that do not wash the hair when received. Washing hair samples at the laboratory has been shown to erratically wash out the water-soluble elements. This creates much less accurate results. In a 2001 study in the Journal of the AMA (Seidel, S. et al., Assessment of Commercial Laboratories Performing Hair Mineral Analysis, JAMA, 285(1) Jan 3:67-72.), laboratories that did not wash the hair showed superb reliability.

Q : Do you have any studies that I can check out?

A : Absolutely! The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) publishes the only peer-reviewed scientific journal focusing exclusively on integrative veterinary medicine, The Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, four times yearly. The AHVMA is a group of member veterinarians and allies who are elevating the veterinary profession through innovation, education, and advocacy of integrative medicine.

In Volume 48 (Fall 2017) of the AHVMA journal, Dr. Ava Frick published a peer-reviewed scientific report which correlated the clinical signs of 94% of 564 dogs studied with their mineral ratios.3  Dr. Frick is one of the leading experts in this field. The understanding and use of hair analysis has come a long way since 1974. If interpreted correctly, hair analysis can provide instructive and empowering data.

Read Dr. Ava Frick Animal HTMA Research Papers in AHVMA here.

Q : How accurate is this Analysis?

A : Like any medical test, no test is 100% accurate. If a pet owner doesn’t follow instructions and uses hair that has been shed or hair that was recently washed with a medicated shampoo, then the results may not be as accurate as you want to. The test is accurate enough for the purposes of reviewing the minerals and heavy metals in a pet’s body and giving suggestions for environmental changes and diet adjustment with the analysis of a veterinarian, Dr. Ava Frick.

We partner with a veterinarian that reviews each test and makes suggestions based on her professional opinion with years of nutrition and medical practice.

It also matters where you send your hair test. Some labs wash the hair before analysis. This can skew results. The lab that Dr. Ava Frick works with do not wash the hair. When you wash the hair first with harsh solvents then it washes away the water-soluble minerals like sodium and potassium that are critical for reviewing thyroid and adrenal function.

Q : How old does my pet need to be?

A : It's never too early to learn about your pet's health. Since HTMA reports data relating to approximately the past 3 months of your pet's life, between six to 12 months will give a good benchmark of the minerals and heavy metals in your pet’s body.

Tests can be run on younger animals, however, if your pet was born within the past 3-4 months, testing a newborn will share data about possible in utero conditions, such as toxic metal exposure and stressors experienced by their mother during pregnancy and whatever has passed on to the newborn.

Q : When is a re-test recommended?

A : HTMA results deliver a recent, 3 months data of your pet's functional and nutritional health. A follow up test is recommended every 4-6 months. This will help you track your pet's progress as you help them become healthier and happier!

But you could do it on a yearly basis too if that is what you prefer.

Q : I switched my animal to raw food and supplements. Should I wait to do the HTMA test?

A : If you just switched, you can do the test 3 months after you implemented a new diet and supplementation plan.

Q : Would there be any implications if my animal is currently on medication?

A : No implication. Infact, as the result is a culmination of what all these medications are also doing in the body. It is what it is, therefore, we want to help support any negatives from them as well and Dr. Ava Frick can assist on that. We wish to help you achieve minimum to zero pharmaceutical as possible.

Q : How much hair will I need?

A : The volume of hair needed will vary from animal to animal, depending on the density of your animal's hair. The density of your pet's hair may even differ depending on where on your pet's body you choose to collect the hair.

Included in your order is a paper scale. To assemble, fold down both sides of the scale and let it rock on its edges. Place hair on the left side until the scale tips over. The scale is cut with an offset on one side, so it will tip when you get to the correct weight. When the scale tips, you have enough hair!

Our lab needs 125mg of hair (usually about a full teaspoon, depending on the density of the hair), to process the sample.

Q : How do I collect the hair sample?

A : Kindly refer to the Collect and Send Sample Guide Tab.

Q : Will this work with a short-haired animal?

Yes! As long as the appropriate amount of hair (the scale tips) is collected, there will be sufficient hair to run the test.

Our lab needs 125mg of hair (usually about a full teaspoon, depending on the density of the hair), to process the sample.

For some short-haired dogs, the amount of hair collected may be quite noticeable. Using a electric clipper around the inner-back thigh and rear belly area works best if you have aesthetic concerns. Hair can be collected from anywhere. The good news is your animal's hair should grow back quickly.

If have concerns about your animal being tiny and having hair that is too short, please contact us before purchasing.

Q : How do I read the results? Is a consultation included?

A : Dr. Ava Frick will assess your pet's HTMA results and give a interpretation and her recommendations for your pet's health. You will also be supported with a Nutritional Balancing with Tissue Mineral Analysis PDF. You are also entitled to 1 (one) x follow-up email with Dr. Ava Frick with all the questions you have, only pertaining to the results and recommendations given.

However, if you still require further consultation, or if you wish to work further with Dr. Ava Frick, you may consider Dr. Ava Frick 15min consult that also comes with an additional 1 (one) x follow-up email.

Q : I need help in sending my samples back to USA, can you help me send it back to USA?

A : Yes we can, you just need to purchase our FedEx For Me option.

Q : I have multiple pets in my household, do i have to purchase multiple FedEx For Me for individual pets?

A : No need, our FedEx courier is based on single address single trip. So if you have multiple pets in your household, you just need to purchase the number of kits required under SHIP MYSELF option and purchase our FedEx Add-On Service as an additional add-on. In this manner, you just need to pay for 1 (one) time courier fee only.

Click here to purchase our FedEx Add-On Service.

Q : I need assistance on the collection of my pet's hair, and my pet is not comfortable in travelling to your location, how can i go about in doing this?

A : No worries, we do provide home visit service too. You just need to purchase our JOOF Home Visit service as a add-on.

Click here to purchase our Home Visit service.

*Note that Home Visit service also comes with a new electric clipper or scissor, therefore there's no requirement for you to provide your own clipper or scissor.

Q : I have multiple pets in my household, do i need to purchase multiple home visit service for individual pets?

A : No need, our home visit service is based on single address single trip. So if you have multiple pets in your household, you just need to purchase the number of kits required under SHIP MYSELF option and  purchase our Home Visit service as a add-on. In this manner you just need to pay for 1 (one) time home visit service. However, our home visit service is based on 1hour, so the maximum pets we can collect in 1 hour is about 4 pets only. 

Click here to purchase our Home Visit service.

*Note that Home Visit service also comes with a new electric clipper or scissor, therefore there's no requirement for you to provide your own clipper or scissor.

Q : I have multiple pets in my household, i need assistance on the hair collection as well as sending back to USA, what are the add ons i need to purchase?

A : If you have multiple pets in your household, you just to purchase the number of kits required under SHIP MYSELF option and purchase our Home Visit service (up to 4 pets) as a add-on, and purchase our FedEx courier service as an additional add-on. 

Click here to purchase our Home Visit service.

Click here to purchase our FedEx Add-On Service.

*Note that Home Visit service also comes with a new electric clipper or scissor, therefore there's no requirement for you to provide your own clipper or scissor.

Q : Which is the cheapest but still a safe courier vendor you can recommend?

A : The cheapest route will be VPost. We recommend the international registered service which cost $11.90 SGD. We have a step by step to guide you how to send via VPost. However do note that what we guided you is to declare an inaccurate actual form of the item sent, in order to bypass the custom clearance in the USA, as Hair is kind of considered a restricted items under VPost rules, therefore there's still a little risk you need to be aware of, it can be hold up or being discarded if custom officer decided to throughly check your package and finds out that it is a restricted item. But usually it does goes through the customs ok. Also note that we wont be liable for any package being hold up or discard at custom, we are just suggesting the cheapest way you can send your samples in and also stating the risk you might encounter.

*If you wish to have a hassle and worry free process, do consider our FedEx For Me option or FedEx courier service add ons for multiple pets.

Click here to purchase our FedEx Add-On Service.

Q : How long does the process take from the day i place my order to the day i receive my results via SHIP MYSELF vs FEDEX FOR ME option?

A : The main difference here is how long it will take to reach USA. We will send out the kit to you within 3-4 working days for all Singapore and Malaysia address. If you have chosen Ship Myself, the timeline will be based on your chosen courier service, eg VPost takes about 2-3 weeks to reach USA. However, If you have chosen FedEx For Me, it will take about 4-5 working days to arrive USA. After samples arrives USA, it takes 6-7 weeks in receiving your results.

Q : How long does it take to receive my results?

A : You will receive your results within 6-7 weeks from the time your samples are received in USA. We will inform you via email email on receipt of your samples. That email will come from "ask@joofholisticpet.sg" so please go ahead and add it to your contact list to avoid it getting lost in your SPAM (especially for free email accounts such as Hotmail, Yahoo & Gmail).

Q : Do I need to complete the intake survey?

A : Your intake survey is an important part of Dr. Ava Frick's ability to get your pet the most calibrated wellness reporting possible. As your pet's best friend, you know them best. We ask that you carefully and accurately answer each question.

If you are unsure of which to select, choose the option closest to the signs exhibited by your pet.

A selection is not required for each question. If your pet does not exhibit behavior or symptoms associated with that question, leave it empty, and proceed to the next.

Q : How much of my pet's results are based on the intake survey?

A : Similar to when you go to the doctor and fill out intake paperwork, your animal's symptoms are given consideration by Dr. Ava Frick.  Dr. Ava Frick don't rely on your intake survey in a way that can affect the reliability of your pet's results, but rather use the survey answers to confirm what the results may already be seeing in your pet's hair sample.  Systems Check is the only category of results that your intake survey results are validated against.  Seriously considering clinical symptoms is an important part of identifying which major body systems are in good health, and which may need extra attention and support.  Remember, your pet's body functions as a result of many systems working together in harmony.  When one system is impaired, it can (and usually does) cause a cascade effect throughout the rest of your pet's body.  For that reason, you should focus on supporting the systems with the highest level of probable impairment, first.

Q : How will I receive my test results?

A : Once Dr. Ava Frick sent us your results and recommendations, we will forward it to you by email directly to the email address you provided on your information form of your test.

Q : After receiving the result, what else should i do?

A : Dr. Ava Frick will assess your pet's HTMA results and give an interpretation and her recommendations for your pet's health. You will also be supported with a Nutritional Balancing with Tissue Mineral Analysis PDF for reference. You are also entitled to 1 x follow-up email with Dr. Ava Frick with all the questions you have, pertaining to the results and recommendations given.

So based on her recommended next course of actions, it is advised for you to try to follow first and if everything fails, or if you might require further assistance, You may consider to work further with Dr. Ava Frick on her 15min consult that also comes with an additional 1 (one) x follow-up email.

Or, if you are looking for a nutritionist or full one on one support for your pet's customised diet, supplements, holistic pet care and more, you may also consider a consult with our certified professional nutritionist here.

*DISCLAIMER

We are not Veterinarians. JOOF Holistic Pet is a 100% holistic pet supply store that strictly only offers and advocate non-chemical, non-toxic and high quality premium pet products that helps to support and enhance your animal's quality of life. We do not claim to diagnose, prescribe or treat any illness or disease by using any of our recommended remedies or methods. All information shared is based on personal experiences with dogs, personal opinions, and deep research about holistic pet care, raw feeding, canine/feline health, and canine/feline nutrition. All the information presented is not meant to replace your veterinarian's advice or prescribed medication but only to offer additional alternative options for your consideration. Pet parents are strongly advised to do your own research before deciding using any of our recommended products or any suggested remedies. We do not offer consultations under veterinary practices. If you have concerns about your pet's health, please consult your holistic veterinarian.

The information provided by this assessment is intended for educational and nutritional purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not intended as conventional veterinary advice or to replace the advice or attention of qualified veterinarians. You may wish to consult your holistic veterinary professional before making changes to your pet's diet, nutritional supplements, or activity level. If you do not have a holistic veterinarian, you can visit http://www.ahvma.org to locate one in your area, or look into our pet parent resources to reach out to one of our preferred holistic professionals for help.

Shipping Policy

Singapore Orders (Non-frozen items up to 3 working days via J&T Express Mon-Fri)

• Non-frozen items could enjoy FREE delivery with orders $38 and above.
• Non-frozen items will be delivered via J&T Express within 3 working days.
  
• Please note that our delivery vendor will attempt to reach you at the contact number that you've submitted. If no one is present or uncontactable for further instructions, your package will be left at the riser, door, gate, or security. If other arrangements are preferred, please leave us a remark or contact us before your package is dispatched.

Singapore Orders (Frozen items scheduled delivery via Lalamove Sat-Sun)

• This delivery option is not limited to just frozen items, however, if there are frozen items in the same order, it will be processed based on frozen item delivery.
• Frozen items could enjoy FREE scheduled delivery (Sat-Sun) with orders $100 and above.
• Orders cut-off time applicable for FREE scheduled delivery (Sat-Sun) is 6pm previous day.
• Orders made by Fri 6pm will be delivered on Sat-Sun at your selected date and time slots.
• Orders made by Sat 6pm will be delivered on Sun at your selected time slots.
• Frozen items will be delivered via Lalamove at a schedule day and time slots. Scheduled days are Sat and Sun between 9-1pm, 1-5pm or 5-9pm time slots.
• The 9-1pm, 1-5pm or 5-9pm time frame means the delivery will happen anytime between 9-1pm, 1-5pm or 5-9pm as per your selection upon checkout.
• We highly recommend that you choose a date and time slot whereby you can be present to receive the parcel within this time frame.
• Should you have difficulties being present, we can arrange for the driver to hang at your gate, however, our cooler packaging can only allow you to collect the package and store in the freezer latest by 2pm, 6pm or 10pm respectively.
• Please note for frozen item delivery, our delivery vendor will attempt to reach you at the contact number that you've submitted. If no one is present, uncontactable and no other arrangements has been made prior, your package WILL BE RETURNED and an additional $20 will be charged for the re-arrangement of 2nd delivery. If other arrangements are preferred, please inform us before your package is dispatched.

Singapore Orders (Frozen items next-day delivery via Grab Express Mon-Fri)

• This delivery option is not limited to just frozen items, however, if there are frozen items in the same order, it will be processed based on frozen item delivery.
• Frozen items could enjoy NEXT-DAY FREE delivery (Mon-Fri) with orders $134 and above.
• Orders cut-off time applicable for NEXT-DAY FREE delivery (Mon-Fri) is 6PM previous day.
• Orders made by Sun 6pm will be delivered at your selected date Mon-Fri 4pm-8pm.
• Orders made by Thurs 6pm will be delivered on Fri 4pm-8pm.
• Frozen items will be delivered via Grab Express the same day anytime between 4pm-8pm, or you may choose another delivery date between Mon to Fri 4pm-8pm time frame.
• The 4-8pm time frame means the delivery will happen anytime between 4-8pm.
• We highly recommend that you choose a date whereby you can be present to receive the parcel within this time frame.
• Should you have difficulties being present, we can arrange for the driver to hang at your gate, however, our cooler packaging can only allow you to collect the package and store in the freezer latest by 9pm.
• Please note for frozen item delivery, our delivery vendor will attempt to reach you at the contact number that you've submitted. If no one is present, uncontactable and no other arrangements has been made prior, your package WILL BE RETURNED and an additional $20 will be charged for the re-arrangement of 2nd delivery. If other arrangements are preferred, please inform us before your package is dispatched.

Singapore Orders (All items via Self Collection)

• Yes, you may also option for Self Collection.
• Self collection is applicable for all items.
• Self collection are strictly appointment based only, please call or whatsapp us at +6581176177 to arrange.
• Self collection address is at
  • 80 Changi Road, Centropod@Changi #02-48, Singapore 419715.
  • 330 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Singapore 560330

Malaysia Orders (Non-frozen items via FedEx)

• Non-frozen items to Malaysia could enjoy FREE delivery with orders $188 and above.
• Non-frozen items to Malaysia will be delivered via FedEx within 4 working days.
  
• Please note that our delivery vendor will attempt to reach you at the contact number that you've submitted. If no one is present or uncontactable for further instructions, your package will be left at the riser, door, gate, or security. If other arrangements are preferred, please leave us a remark or contact us before your package is dispatched.
• Do note that we are not responsible for any import taxes/duties and other charges, delays, and losses once the package is with our courier partner. Please check with your local authorities for more information on taxes and prohibited/restricted items.

Other International Orders (Non-frozen items via various couriers)

• Non-frozen items to Worldwide will be delivered via various couriers within 15 working days.
• To know the exact delivery duration, kindly email us your address with postal code and we will get back to you soonest possible.
• Do note that we are not responsible for any import taxes/duties and other charges, delays, and losses once the package is with our courier partner. Please check with your local authorities for more information on taxes and prohibited/restricted items.
• Please note that our delivery vendor will attempt to reach you at the contact number that you've submitted. If no one is present or uncontactable for further instructions, your package will be left at the riser, door, gate, or security. If other arrangements are preferred, please leave us a remark or contact us before your package is dispatched.

Return Policy

Generally, all our products are strictly non-refundable nor exchangeable.

However, in the event you received an incorrect or defective item, or any other valid reason that you can't enjoy your purchase, we will provide a refund or an exchange, case by case basis.

All we ask is that when the item is returned, it should meet the following requirements:

• Reach out to us to arrange an appointment to drop off your item at 80 Changi Road, Centropod@Changi #02-48, Singapore 419715.
• Item returned should be in their original & sealed packaging. Broken seals will not be accepted, unless there's a valid reason, based on case by case basis.
• Please ensure at least 6 months of shelf life if it's a perishable item.
• Send us your order confirmation email for refund verification.

Items not eligible for returns:

• Food related, wearables, beds and carriers due to food safety & hygiene reasons.
• Items that are purchased from promotional pricing from all of our sales channels.
• Customers who had a history of returning more than 3 items.

When we receive the refunded/exchange item, we will review the condition of the item, and reach out to you to confirm and issue a refund/exchange within 7 working days. We regret that customers who decline to respect our policy will be ineligible for exchange, returns and refunds.

Do also note that if we find that a product has been intentionally damaged or tampered with, refunds will not be offered.

As generally, returns are not allowed otherwise, please check your order (e.g. type, size, colour, quantity, etc) before checking out. If you need help with any product, chat with us or please send us an email to ask@joofholisticpet.sg