Pet Health And Care >>  Dog Care >>  Dog herbal remedies  
 
Dog herbal remedies

Dog Herbal Treatment

Herbal medicines have become a more popular and economic alternative in recent years due to increasing cost of veterinary treatments and the various side effects of strong medications.



They are regarded as a safe alternative to medications when treating common problems in dogs.



However, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian first.



A dog herbal remedy may be effective, but it should be practiced with caution. If you are planning to give herbs to your dog, it is always preferable to make a strong tea or use a tincture, because dogs have a hard time digesting fresh herbs. Tablets should also be avoided because they are not absorbed very well. Do keep in mind that a lot of herbs that are safe for human consumption are toxic for dogs, as are the levels of tolerance to dosage strength.

Below are some pointers to keep in mind before giving herbs to your dog:

  • Always consult your vet before giving herbs to your dog.
  • Always buy the herbs from a reliable health food supplier.
  • Be watchful of drug interactions and overdoses. Consult your vet to get a proper idea.
  • There isn’t sufficient data available for the use of herbs during pregnancy, so it is always better to avoid this at such times.

 

Dog herbal remedies can be used for various types of common ailments such as diarrhea, constipation, skin conditions, arthritis, allergies, bad breath, bladder and kidney disorders, wound treatment and healing, coughs, cystitis, and incontinence. Some herbal remedies for the above mentioned problems are as follows.

  • Alfalfa is used for arthritis and allergies.
  • Aloe vera juice is very good for treating ulcers, acid stomach, and arthritis.
  • Black walnut acts as a natural remedy for the treatment of fungal infections.
  • Chamomile is used for pain and inflammation in the intestines and stomach, and cures vomiting, indigestion, and gas.
  • Valerian and chamomile serve as a very good remedy for stress and anxiety.
  • Colloidal silver acts as a natural alternative to antibiotics.
  • Cornsilk is used for incontinence.
  • Echinacea and goldenseal enhance the immune system and provide protection against infection.
  • Garlic is a natural antibiotic and so protects against all kinds of infection.
  • Ginger is a well-known remedy to cure vomiting, nausea, motion sickness, and gastritis.
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin are used to address arthritis and joint problems and to rebuild cartilage.
  •  Green tea is a powerful antioxidant and an aid to your dog's immune system.
  • Slippery elm tincture can be used to treat diarrhea and stomach problems.
  • Licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce swelling because of arthritis.
  • Eyebright tea is very good for eyes.
  • Pedialyte is good to cure dehydration.
 
  Submitted on March 12, 2010