If you’ve ever wanted to try natural pet remedies alongside leading-edge veterinary care, you’re not alone. Plenty of pet parents are intrigued by the idea of holistic pet care. Some might worry that homeopathic remedies for animals have no place in the modern veterinary field. But that’s not the case at Androscoggin Animal Hospital.
Here at Androscoggin, we believe holistic pet care and top-notch medical care go hand in hand.
That’s why we’re sharing three of our favorite natural remedies for common pet problems. Make sure you check with your pet’s veterinarian before you give your furry friend any natural pet supplements or remedies.
Our Favorite Homeopathic Remedies for Animals
1. Aromatherapy for Anxiety
Does your pet howl and yowl when you leave for work in the morning—no matter how much time you spend cuddling and playing with her before you go? Does he get anxious during thunderstorms or fireworks sessions?
Aromatherapy can help.
Rose, lavender, and chamomile are three calming essential oils you can use around your pet but never feed your pet any essential oil. Instead, look for calming sprays made specifically for pups or kitties. You can find them in most pet stores.
If you have an essential oils diffuser at home, put a drop or two of lavender, chamomile, or rose oil in the diffuser, according to the device’s instructions. Make sure your pet cannot access the diffuser.
Soon, both of you will feel that anxiety melting away.
2. Natural Pet Supplements for Joint, Heart, and Brain Health
High-quality natural pet supplements can do wonders for the health of your four-legged friends. Many veterinarians—our team included!—recommend fish oil that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA.
These fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, which is great for your pet’s joints. They can also support healthy brain and heart function.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements that, when taken together, may help restore your pet’s joints and treat osteoarthritis symptoms. Glucosamine is derived from shellfish, while chondroitin can be found in the connective tissue of animals from cows to sharks.
Ask your veterinarian which natural pet supplements can help your pet the most!
3. Herbal Treatments for Dry Skin
Winter air can be tough on your pet’s skin. Dry skin can lead to chafing, discomfort, scratching, hot spots, and even infections. Thankfully, there are several herbal treatments for pets that can help alleviate the dryness.
One of the quickest herbal pet treatments is the tea-bag trick. You can steep a bag of green or tea in hot water and then let it cool all the way down. Apply the cool bag to your pet’s hotspot or itchy area for calming comfort from the Camellia sinensis plant.
And while these aren’t herbs, per se, you can also use coconut oil, olive oil, or a homemade oatmeal bath to ease dry or itchy skin.
Naturally Nourishing
Nature provides all sorts of beneficial pet remedies. But not everything that grows naturally is safe for your pet. Make sure to check with your veterinarian before trying any natural pet remedy or essential oil for pets.
If you need a veterinarian in Brunswick or Topsham, Maine, reach out to our team at Androscoggin Animal Hospital. We’re a Fear Free Certified practice that’s also accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
We can’t wait to meet you and your pet!