A dog’s sense of smell is around 50 times stronger than that of a human being. Just like humans, these olfactory sensors link directly to the limbic system which is the pleasure center of the brain. Essential oils can, therefore, be just as or even more beneficial to dogs than they can for us. There are many ways in which to harness the benefits of essential oils for dogs .
The Benefits Of Essential Oils For Dogs
If your dog is ill, always be sure to consult your veterinarian when your dog is experiencing severe or persistent symptoms.
Be aware that it is not recommended that essential oils be used in the long-term. You can consult an expert in the use of essential oils for treating illnesses like cancer.
You should also note that cats are quite different than dogs, so be sure to do your research if you would like to use essential oils with your cat.
A Natural Flea Treatment
While you and your beloved canine may simply adore the fragrances of essential oils, fleas, ticks, and other insects, such as mosquitoes, abhor the odor.
Using essential oils as a flea treatment is, therefore, a great natural way to eliminate the toxins contained in other types of flea remedies available on the market. Here’s how:
Mix together:
– 1 quart (liter) of cooled distilled (boiled) water.
– 1 cup of vinegar (preferably apple cider or a mixture the two).
– 2 to 3 drops of lavender and/or cedar oil.
Place the solution in a spray bottle and gently mist the fur. Don’t soak or drench the dog and be careful to avoid the eyes, nose and mouth.
Apply regularly for the best results. Alternatively, soak a doggy bandanna or collar in the solution for a natural flea collar. Keep the solution in the fridge to keep it fresh for longer.
Calming Anxiety
Whether you have an anxious dog or if your pet reacts to certain stressful situations like traveling in a car or loud noises, essential oils can help calm and relax your dog.
For general anxiety, Lavender oil, Neroli oil, or Petitgrain are recommended. Melissa oil can also be beneficial for sound-induced anxiety.
The oil can be applied topically by applying a few drops of oil that have been mixed with a carrier oil to your hands and patting it onto the fur, from head to toe. Alternatively, let your pet get a few good whiffs directly out of your hands.
Be aware that using essentials oils in their concentrated form can be harmful so make certain that you dilute or use a carrier oil.
Recommended carrier oils include Jojoba, Aloe Vera, or Lavender Hydrosol. The ratio for dilution depends on the size and weight of your pet. Be sure that you only use THERAPEUTIC grade, high-quality essential oils.
Appetite Control
Loss of appetite or weight gain in a dog can be detrimental to their long term health. Any essential oils (or a blend) that support a healthy digestive system can assist in controlling appetite.
– Spearmint aids in weight loss and provides the additional benefits of reducing nausea and diarrhea.
– Loss of appetite can be treated using ginger, orange or Bergamot essential oils.
Once again, it is important to dilute using a base or carrier oil and keep the correct ratio for the weight and size of the dog in mind.
Healing
There are a wide variety of essential oils that promote healing in dogs. From burns to regular scratches and sores that develop on the skin, the top essential oil for healing is Helichrysum.
It has antibacterial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces bleeding while improving cell regeneration and providing gentle pain relief.
Precautions
As mentioned above, essential oils should always be diluted before using them on your pet. Be aware that some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to some oils. Spot test the diluted solution to determine the safety of use on your pet.
Also, keep in mind that a dog may simply not like some fragrances. If your dog reacts to the oils in an exuberant manner rather than trying to avoid a specific fragrance, it should be beneficial.
Only use THERAPEUTIC grade, quality essential oils. Remember, treating different doggy ailments the natural way is safer and can be more effective than other types of treatments.
Guest author, Shana Smith is a natural health enthusiast and successful business owner. She owns a site, AromaTherapy4Mom.com, which is dedicated to natural health remedies and aromatherapy.