Herbal dog remedies examined

Dog remedies include alternative treatment options to cure common disorders in both puppies and older pets. Several pet owners are now considering the use of herbal or natural products, homeopathy and acupuncture to treat a variety of healthy concerns such as gastrointestinal disorders, skin conditions and chronic infections. Although herbal remedies may not be useful to treat serious ailments, they effectively boost the dog`s immune system and prevent the recurrence of infection in many pets.

Effectiveness of Herbal Products

Since individual dog needs differ greatly, each pet responds differently to herbal medication. To determine if the herbal product controls the illness, pet owners have to administer the medication for a few days and observe the pet`s initial response to treatment. Commercial drugs prescribed to treat life-threatening disease shouldn`t be replaced with herbal remedies unless otherwise directed by the vet. Although there are several herbal products to cure health conditions, it`s best to start treatment only after confirming the diagnosis through laboratory tests and veterinary examination.

Benefits of Herbal Remedies for Dogs

Herbal remedies are a concoction of herbs and plant extracts that have bacteria fighting and healing properties. They also reduce the dog`s risk of developing harsh side effects commonly seen with the use of commercial drugs. Some pets that require medical help for chronic conditions also benefit due to the safe nature of herbal products. There are several herbs or roots that cure common canine diseases. However, commercially available herbal products contain herbs or oils in appropriate amounts suited to pets. Pet owners that use ingredients found in the kitchen to treat pet health concerns should also understand that certain ingredients may prove toxic to dogs. This occurs especially if the ingredients are administered in large amounts. Although herbs are natural, not all naturally occurring plants or roots are medicinal in nature.

Common Medicinal Herbs

• Lavender Oil
• Licorice Root
• Aloe Vera
• Dandelion Root
• Peppermint
• Rosemary
• Echinacea
• Goldenseal
• Chamomile

Commercial Herbal Product Brands

• Pet Alive Natural Products
• Pet Naturals
• Natures Herbs
• Natural Pet
• Ark Naturals

Home Preparation of Herbal Remedies

Since several ailments don`t necessarily require commercial medication, pet owners may attempt to prepare certain herbal remedies to treat minor conditions such as itchy skin, ear infection and bruises. In addition, pet owners should also try feeding pets, dog food that doesn`t contain additives, by products or preservatives. A healthy diet that consists of high quality ingredients strengthens the dog`s immune system and makes pet`s less susceptible to allergic reactions and bacterial infection. New diets should be incorporated gradually to the normal food, to prevent food intolerance.

Natural Home Remedies for Dogs

• Equal parts of mineral oil and vitamin E to soothe ear mite infection.
• Aloe Vera soothes skin rash and works as disinfectant on open cuts or bruises.
• A solution of tea tree oil and water effectively soothes hot spots and reduces itching caused by flea bites.
• Ginger root combats gastrointestinal disorder in dogs.

Although several pets respond positively to herbal treatment, dogs that develop additional symptoms require vet help. If the ailment persists or doesn`t get better with herbal treatment it`s best to treat the pet with vet prescribed medication to prevent serious or permanent damage to the body.

Reviews & Comments