In recent years, pet owners are learning to use herbal remedies for dogs whenever their canine friends suffer from common dog ailments. There may still be some controversies regarding the use of herbs for dogs, but their benefits are starting to be recognized as natural healing methods that can improve your pet's immunity against certain diseases.
It is best to use herbal remedies for dogs with caution, however, to make sure that your pet will get the most benefits out of them. If your veterinarian is against the use of herbal treatments, perhaps you should get a second opinion from another one who understands and accepts herbs for dogs.
There may not be a lot of vets who can understand herbal remedies for dogs, but surely you can find one. After all, most of today's new medications for dogs come from plants anyway. The essential elements from plants that are beneficial to animals are often studied and concentrated to form new medications. However, because of the higher concentrations that are given to pets, sometimes there are some dangerous side effects that your dog may experience.
There are no side effects with herbal treatments because they are given in small concentrations and often in their natural form. Here are some of the herbal remedies for dogs that you may try:
1. Garlic has been regarded as an old herbal remedy that is used as an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-parasite solution. However, if your dog suffers from anemia, you should not give this, as garlic may make his condition worse. A little amount, like a few cloves a day would help, though.
2. Ginkgo is a popular herb for people who want to improve their memory. It can work the same way with dogs, especially those who are considered working dogs who are used for police and military work. Ginkgo can help improve your dog's memory as well as relieve him of anxiety.
3. Tea Tree Oil is often used as a skin ointment to relieve itching and control dog fleas. It should be used moderately, especially for small and young dogs.
4. Chamomile is a wonderful herb that can encourage fast healing of wounds, as well as relief from respiratory diseases.
5. Lavender essence can be a soothing aromatheraphy fragrance that help your dog's sleeping problems.
6. An oatmeal bath can help your dog when it is itching from fleas or if it is suffering from a skin infection, you can prepare an oatmeal bath for him.
7. Yeast can be great for diarrhea, while flax seed can be a good laxative, if your dog is suffering from constipation.
Through centuries, these herbal remedies for dogs have been in use, and yet had faced many controversies in the past. It makes you wonder why this is so, when these herbs have been known to be effective and with less side effects. Perhaps it is the potential of these herbal remedies to take the huge market away from big pharmaceutical companies that causes the controversy.
When using these herbal remedies for dogs, make sure to read more about them to know which ones are the best for your dog. Better yet, consult a professional who knows about herbal solutions in order for your dog to enjoy their health benefits.