Herbs and Your Dog
Herbs and Your Dog
Using herbs to treat illness dates back through history. Herbal remedies have been around for centuries and are the basis for many of our most common supplements and medications. It is the purest and simplest way to use medicine just as nature intended.
Herbal preparations and supplements use the root, flower, whole leaf, or seed so that a variety of compounds that occur naturally in the plant are available to the body as needed. In fact, one plant may have a wide range of healing properties. Herbs have a complex structure that is unique and differs from the pharmaceuticals that are derived from them.
Herbs work as safely and effectively as they do because the whole plant acts in a way that each part is incapable of achieving independently. The whole herb is greater than individual leaves, seeds, flowers, or roots. Herbs come in a variety of forms. Most common are tinctures, which are basically extracts, whole herbs, either fresh or dried, and tablets or capsules. Read the ingredients if you are purchasing already prepared remedies. Some of those may contain ingredients that should not be used with dogs. Among those herbs that should be used with caution or avoided entirely are: ephedra, black walnut, gingko, tea tree oil, red clover, comfrey, and pennyroyal. Check with a knowledgeable herbalist or your veterinarian before using any of those herbs.
Most of the herbal supplements that benefit humans also benefit our animal companions. There may be some exceptions though. The organs, glands, and tissue systems in dogs sometimes work in a different way than in humans. If you have doubts or questions about the particular herb, it is prudent to contact an herbalist or holistic veterinarian. They will be your best guide for deciding on dosage based upon size and specific herb formulas for a particular need. The recommended dosage for herbs is usually proportionate based upon the dog’s body weight.
Herbal supplements are different from pharmaceutical drugs. Pharmaceuticals are frequently chemically derived preparations. They may, in fact, come from an organic source such as the same plant from which an herbal preparation is obtained. The difference is that generally only a single component is extracted and this may lead to unpleasant side effects. Generally, pharmaceuticals treat symptoms and not the underlying causes of the disease. However, they do provide swift, short term results that may be necessary. In comparison, herbals rarely cause side effects in the canine, and provide a deeper, slower release of active ingredients. Consequently, herbs take a longer time to work. Again, in using herbal supplements and herbs, the dog benefits from the interactions of the whole plant’s components within the body; the plant properties together achieve an action that individual components would not.
Herbs interact with certain drugs. This may or may not be beneficial; you may find that you can reduce the amount of prescription by combining it with an herbal supplement. Not consulting your vet may have disastrous consequences if you do not adjust the drug dosage or if any adjustment is too drastic.
Your dog’s body when working optimally is able to heal itself and fend off illnesses and disease. Occasionally though, your companion may need a boost. Herbal supplements can stimulate natural defenses and support a weakened system. Herbal dietary supplements can provide minerals, vitamins, essential fatty acids in a form that your dog can use fully without excess. Sometimes, the nutritional content of the herbs will differ from plant to plant. In the case of needing concentrated amounts of a specific vitamin or mineral, that is guaranteed, herbs may not be sufficient. Or you may need to combine herbs to achieve the same result.
Herbal supplements are able to provide nutrients and substances that support and promote a healthy, functioning dog. Finding which herbals work best is answered by watching your canine companion closely. Recognize and understand that meeting individual needs is the ultimate goal. Take joy in developing a close relationship and accommodate for your pet’s needs and yours.
Learn about healthy treats for your dog companion in Treat Your Dog to Biscuits.
