Herbal supplements for dogs may be used as a compliment to traditional medicines and treatment methods for conditions from A-Z. For example, goldenseal and alfalfa are commonly used to help alleviate symptoms associated with dog cancer such as weight loss, while burdock cleanses and detoxifies the body, which can help cure skin disorders.
There are literally hundreds of herbal supplements that may be useful for pets. Too many to mention here. What we can do is list several common herbal supplements for dogs and their benefits.
Common Herbal Supplements for Dogs
Just a few of the most commonly used herbal supplements for dogs include:
- Alfalfa
- Burdock
- Calendula
- Echinacea
- Garlic
- Olive Oil
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), stimulates digestion and appetite. It can help ailing animals gain weight and when taken as a dietary supplement, it improves physical and mental vigor. Alfalfa has another benefit for dogs. With continued use, alfalfa can help ease discomfort associated with muscle or joint pains in older pets.
Burdock (Arctium lappa) cleanses the blood and aids in body detoxification. This may help ease skin disorders and other infections. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is commonly used as a treatment for allergy ears. A solution of calendula, spring water and sea salt helps flush the ear canal and keep it clear of discharges and secretions. Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) helps purify the system. It can assist dogs that may be experiencing symptoms such as weight loss and weakness associated with a number of common conditions. As a nutritional supplement, Echinacea purifies the blood and it restores health to the skin.
Garlic (Allium sativum) has been used for years to help eliminate worms. This supplement also beneficially stimulates the intestinal tract and it strengthens digestion. Garlic is also used as a supplement to other medications for dogs that may be overweight or suffering hip pain from arthritis or dysplasia.
Olive oil (Olea europaea) can be used on a regular basis to maintain a healthy intestinal tract by stimulating the flow of liver bile and the contraction of intestinal muscles. Olive oil can be given to dogs with conditions twice a day by mixing it with food. One half teaspoon to a full teaspoon is enough to treat intestinal most upsets. Any excess oil will lubricate fecal mass and soothe the mucous membrane linings of the intestine and rectum. As a preventative, give olive oil once a week. This weekly dose can also prevent hairballs.
Herbal Preparations
Whether you are using herbs as a supplement or treatment, you should pay close attention to dosage recommendations. Dosage amounts are typically based on your dogs weight and/or indications, but the only persons that can recommend a dosage amount for your dog are your family veterinarian or a holistic vet. Before giving herbs to your dog, see a vet who will conduct a physical exam, which will help determine which, if any, herbal supplements are safe for your pet and which ones will provide the best benefits for him.