Herbal Remedies for Pets

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Herbal Remedies for Cats, Dogs and Horses

Just like humans, domesticated animals like dogs and cats are affected by the health hazards of modern living. Pollution, poor nutrition, stress and unhealthy lifestyles can lead to a variety of illnesses and conditions that are very similar to those experienced by humans.

In fact, many, if not most pet health concerns can be addressed by helping your pets to live a healthier lifestyle.

While it has its place, conventional medicine for animals and 'modern technology' have failed our pets in many ways.

"In the wild, animals instinctively seek out healing herbs to help them when they are ill or undernourished. In fact, Asclepius, the ancient Greek god of medicine, respected dogs very highly for their ability to seek out and eat medicinal herbs in the wild. This ability is shared by other animals, including cats. We are coming to realize that nature often has the answers - but animals have always known this! Natural medicine can help your pet just as it can help you. While there is always a place for conventional veterinary medicine, natural medicine can compliment conventional veterinary care and in many cases do just as well. I have applied the same care and research that have gone into our Native Remedies range for adults and children to the development of pet-friendly, safe and effective natural remedies for animals. As always, all remedies are formulated to the highest therapeutic standards and manufactured under strict pharmaceutical conditions for your peace of mind and the well being of your pets. " Michele Carelse, Clinical Psychologist.

Adrenal gland support for your pet

Adrenal glands significantly affect the functioning of every tissue, organ and gland in the animal body and determine the energy of the body’s reaction to external triggers. Therefore, canine and feline adrenal gland problems also affect the utilization of carbohydrates and fats, the conversion of fats and proteins into energy, the distribution of stored fat, blood sugar regulation, and proper cardiovascular and gastrointestinal functioning.

The adrenal glands do not operate in isolation and should be seen as part of overall systemic functioning. From a holistic point of view, therefore, it makes sense that regular exercise and a balanced diet are important in maintaining systemic as well as adrenal health.

Certain herbs are also known to support the health of the adrenal glands. As animals react well to supplementation with herbal remedies, these can also play an important role in supporting a pet’s adrenal function. Homeopathic remedies can be equally effective in maintaining healthy energy levels and body weight, digestive functioning, cardiovascular health and electrolyte balance.

Social behavior in pets

Well-behaved and sociable pets are a delight, but some animals have difficulty interacting with other pets, children or strangers. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including upbringing, socialization problems or past experience. Such pets may display a tendency to bite, growl, scratch or even attack in certain situations – causing a great deal of worry for their owners, who are often at a loss to explain or understand their pet’s behavior

Although some breeds are definitely more prone to socialization problems than others, experts say there are usually underlying reasons for this behavior, such as routine problems relating to breeding, past abuse and physical discomfort. Sometimes the poor pet may just be trying to do its job (such as the dog that barks at the postman) but other times owners are desperate to find a solution for their pet’s behavior.

There are many things which can be done to soothe your pet and encourage good social behavior.

Here are some tips:

• Sometimes dominance issues or nervousness can play a part. Consult an animal behaviorist for insight into your pet's problem.
• Animals that fight over food should be fed on their own in a different room.
• If a normally calm animal suddenly changes into a socially difficult one, consult a holistic vet as soon as possible, as there may be underlying health problems.
• Have there been any recent changes in your pet's environment, which may have upset him? Changes such as a new baby or a job that keeps you away for longer periods than before may be the explanation.
• Regular exercise is a good outlet for pent up emotions and will help to keep your pet healthy and fit. But keep your dog on a lead at all times and consider investing in a muzzle if necessary.
• Ensure your pet is eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food (preferably organic). Many behavioral problems can be related to an inadequate diet. Some experts say that animals that are prone to fighting may be eating too much protein. Speak to your vet about introducing more carbohydrate (e.g. rice) and vegetables.
• As a last resort, neutering your male dog or cat may help to control aggressive behavior.
• There are many herbs which have been traditionally used to maintain nervous system harmony and support soothed behavior. Used as part of a holistic approach, these can make all the difference to your pet.