There is an alternative to conventional medicine in the case of dog thyroid problems: natural treatments. Possible remedies include kelp, ginseng and astragalus.
The Benefits of Natural Treatments
In contrast to conventional medicine, herbs and other natural remedies don't have side effects that can cause more problems for your dog, such as inducing hyperthyroidism, or hypothyroidism. They have fewer risks than medication, and they don't become addictive.
Warnings on Natural Treatments
Natural remedies may not be sufficient. It's possible that they won't treat all the symptoms, or may not be strong enough for dog thyroid problems. It's important to be aware of the severity of your pet's problems. Also, it is important to understand that natural remedies do have the potential to interact or react with other natural remedies and conventional drugs.
The Thyroid Gland
In order to be able to help your dog with his or her thyroid problems, it is important to understand the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system. It releases hormones that regulate metabolic processes in the dog's body. The hormones produced by the thyroid gland are important in maintaining normal and healthy activity levels in various organs.
Kelp
Kelp is a sea vegetable that has been known to treat thyroid problems. Kelp is rich in nutrients and is recognized for these qualities:
- A high fiber content
- Anti-tumor
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-rheumatic
- Cleanses the digestive tract
It's also likely that your dog's food already has supplements of some form of kelp. When supplementing your dog's diet with kelp, it's important to know where the kelp is being harvest from. If it is harvested from an area with a lot of human traffic, it is possible that it could be contaminated.
Ginseng
The root of ginseng is what's used for its healing qualities. It is known for treating animals with:
- Cachexia and anorexia
- Depression
- Nerve disorders
- Bodily infections
- Regulating blood sugars
The above problems are commonly associated with thyroid problems in dogs, specifically hypothyroidism.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a plant that is well-known as a remedy for revitalizing the endocrine system, which is important for dogs that have undergone chemotherapy. The root is what's used. It is known for these qualities:
- Reduces auto-immune response
- Anti-tumor
- Boosts immune function (important in dealing with or recovering from cancer)
- Anti-inflammatory
- Helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugars
Products Available
If you aren't able to properly administer any form of these plants and roots to your dog on your own, or can't find dog food that already contains them, there are natural supplements that have been specifically designed for pets. The supplements come in pill form, and also tincture form, which makes it simple to mix with your dog's treats or meals. Even though they come in pill form, they are still completely natural.