Holistic Treatments For Your Pet.

Before using any of these remedies, please check with your vet to insure of the right dosage or of any complications they might cause due to an existing problem.

If you are like most of us, you prefer not to put chemicals into your pet's body, or your own, for that matter. I found some really great holistic treatments for a variety of common problems. Here they are:

Apis: Known as Apis Mellifica. Meaning - whole honeybee. The active ingredient in Apis mellifica is the venom of the honeybee. This is used to treat minor bee stings or bug bites. But, as with any acute situation, always, always, consult with your vet before administering any drug or remedy.

Apple-Cider Vinegar: ***Note - check with your vet to make sure that your dog does not have any yeast or intestinal problems.*** This remedy has been used for centuries as a daily tonic to flush the system on humans. Look for brands that contain the "mother" a bacterial culture from the fermentation process, also known as the floaters you see in the bottle.

Besides being a good source of easily absorbable, potassium apple cider vinegar aids digestion, inhibits the growth of unfriendly bacteria and helps maintain the proper acid/alkaline balance of the digestive tract. Many holistic vets recommend a daily dosage of:
1 tsp (5 ml) for cats and small dogs (up to 14 lb)
2 tsp (10 ml) for medium dogs (15 to 34 lb)
1 tbsp (15 ml) for large dogs (35 to 84 lb)

Arnica: Has the ability to minimize bruising, bleeding, shock, pain, and recovery time following strains, injuries, surgery, exercise...Even if there is no obvious sign of injury like bruises or inflammation, Arnica helps the after shock, muscular soreness and pain of any trauma. This remedy works to move fluid such as blood and lymph away from injuries.

Calendula: Marigolds are not only pretty outside, but helpful in your medicine cabinet inside. Calendula cream, found in health-food stores, is a powerful healer. I compare it to Neosporin in healing properties. Only use it on closed wounds, though, because its quick healing power can trap bacteria inside the wound and cause a serious infection.

Colostrum: Known as "first milk," colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins and beneficial proteins such as growth factors. Some vets suggest using cow colostrum as a dietary supplement for dogs that need their immune system boosted. That is why I cringe every time I hear of someone that has bought a puppy that is only 6 wks. old. They need to be on the mother for at least 8 wks. to get the benefits of her milk.

Lavender: Essential oil of lavender speeds healing and reduces scarring. Two caveats with any essential oil. Only buy oils that are guaranteed as therapeutic grade, and always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil such as almond oil.

Milk Thistle: ***Do not use in pregnant animals.*** This is a member of the sunflower family and is used to boost liver function.

Pumpkin: Pure pumpkin, not pumpkin mix, is full of fiber and is a great diarrhea remedy. Conversely, it works for constipation, too. You can buy canned pumpkin in the store. ***Do not buy pumpkin mix, as it is loaded with sugar and spices that are super bad for your dogs digestion.*** Also, if your baby is on a diet, you can give them pumpkin and it makes them have a feeling of fullness.

Rescue Remedy: This is a preparation of 5 individual flower essences. It is believed to operate on a vibrational level to balance emotions. It is synonymous with trauma, and so is ideal for any event that involves suddenness and shock, from calming down from an unexpected fright to recuperating from surgery.

Slippery Elm: This bark is believed to coat and lubricate the digestive tract, making it a gentle and safe herb for diarrhea and tummy upset. You can get it in capsules as well as tinctures. Consult your vet on dosing.