Natural Medicine for Dogs

Taking an alternative approach to health care is not just for people. Dogs benefit from natural medicine and all-natural health care as well. Natural medicine incorporates herbs and diet as well as physical activity to provide dogs with health from the inside out. When it comes to common canine ailments such as fleas, digestive disorders, arthritis, fatigue and aging, there are alternative approaches to standard antibiotics.

Fleas are a common problem during the spring and summer months. To avoid the use of medicines and parasitic sprays or shampoos, supplement dog food with garlic or apple cider vinegar. Both will make the pet unappetizing to fleas, and a regular bath followed by grooming will assist in removing fleas and any eggs. In addition, citrus is a natural flea deterrent. Create a gentle form of citrus oil by pouring submerging lemon juice and lemon peels in boiling water. Remove from the heat and soak overnight. Then apply the lemon oil to the pet's coat, concentrating on the neck, behind the ears and any noticeable problem areas. If the dog is getting fleas from an outside source, try releasing flea predators such as nematodes in the backyard. In general, a healthy pet does not get severe flea infestation. If the pet has an excessive flea problem, implement a more structured diet and monitor the pet to pinpoint an underlying health concern.

Like their owners, dogs get stomach disorders including upset from food items, irritation due to stress and other complications associated with the dog's environment. In the wild, dogs eat herbs and grasses to soothe their upset stomach--but this is not always practical for a domesticated pet. Ginger has long been used in Chinese cultures for its stomach-soothing properties. Ginger stimulates elimination and prevents nausea. Ginger can be purchased whole in most grocery stores or in supplement form. Use supplements to alleviate serious stomach disorder and fresh ginger in food for prevention. For other stomach ailments such as flatulence, try anise or fennel, both part of the licorice family, to soothe the stomach, detoxify the system and aid in digestion.

Dogs are prone to arthritis just as people are. One of the most important ways to prevent the progression of arthritis is to give dogs a generous dose of vitamin C daily. Be sure to administer it with food to avoid upsetting the dog's stomach. Celery is also used for treating arthritis in dogs. Celery, a part of the parsley family, produces seeds that are used as a homeopathic remedy for inflammation, long-term joint health, arthritis and gout. Celery seed can be purchased as a dried culinary herb, extract or supplement. Other natural remedies for arthritis in dogs include a healthy diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids will help to alleviate morning stiffness and tenderness in the joints. Olive oil can be mixed with dry dog food to add Omega-3 into your pet's diet as well as incorporating fresh fish or avocado; both are generally popular with dogs.

Fatigue in dogs can be an indicator of many things including depression, aging or adrenal disorders. All of these possible causes can be treated with a highly potent homeopathic solution called onosmodium, also known as False Gromwell and Wild Job's Tears. Onosmodium comes from a large wild plant that grows along the eastern coast. It is often used to address confusion, memory loss, fatigue, feelings of heaviness or dizziness. Onosmodium is also effective in addressing depression, listlessness and the general "blues." However, it also causes frequent urination. Pet owners should provide plenty of water and opportunities for their dog to go outside when treating with onosmodium. In addition, this supplement should not be used long term.

Dogs begin to enter their "twilight years" between the ages of five and nine, depending on weight, breed and general health. Natural supplements and food additives offer pet owners some option to promote health and longevity as well as give pets remedies that are chemical free, and therefore they are often easier for the dog's body to process. Some of the important nutrients and supplements that benefit the aging dog include Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, which rid the body of free radicals, and calculus, which will protect your pet's oral health.