Can I Use Essential Oils on My Dog? Will They Help?
ESSENTIAL OILS MAY HELP TREAT VARIOUS CONDITIONS
Many pet owners are starting to use essential oils on the dogs because not only are they natural and organic, but they can also be effective in treating an array of conditions. They can help relieve itching, and parasites such as fleas and ticks, and can also be used to protect dogs against other insects that may bite them. Some scents may also be used to help relieve anxiety for your pet dog. However, make sure you consult your veterinarian first before using them as treatment for a type of condition. Below are some of the most common conditions oils may be able to help with:
- Anxiety
- Allergies and restoring dry skin
- Itchy skin and arthritis
WHAT ESSENTIAL OILS ARE SAFE TO USE?
Below is a list of essential oils that are generally safe to use around your dog. However, make sure you ask your veterinarian first if they are safe for you to use on your dog — it will always be important to inform your veterinarian about the types of products you are using on your pet. Some of the most common and safe oils to use are:
- Lavender – This oil will help calm your dog. It is useful in combating anxiety, allergies, ulcers, and insomnia, among others.
- Cardamom – This anti-bacterial oil can be used to help ease nausea, coughs, and heartburn.
- Frankincense – Can help strengthen the immune system and may also help reduce some serious conditions such as tumors.
- Chamomile – This oil is non-toxic, and it generally good to use against skin allergies or irritations. It can also be used on burns.
- Spearmint – This type of oil can help reduce or combat weight gain, and it can also aid in balancing metabolism. It can also be used to help ease symptoms associated with nausea and diarrhea.
- Thyme – This oil can help combat pain. It is also antibacterial, so it can help with fungal infections or other skin problems and concerns.
BE CAREFUL OF THESE OILS
Make sure you also get your oils from a reputable company in order to minimize the chance of encountering serious problems for your dog. Not all oils can also be used on your pet, and below are some of the oils that you should be careful of:
- Eucalyptus – This type of oil can be toxic to dogs; there have been reported cases of depression, vomiting, and many other health issues.
- Tea tree – While tea tree is often used to battle skin problems, using them on your dog may result in weakness, depression, and possible muscle issues or problems.
- Citrus – This type of oil can potentially damage your dog’s nervous system, and even cause problems with blood pressure.
- Pennyroyal – This oil may be fatal if used on dogs.
- Birch, clove, and/or anise – These oils are toxic, especially when they are ingested. They may result to serious health issues such as lethargy, kidney failure, seizures or death.
- Ylang ylang, pine, and wintergreen – These oils are also toxic to dogs.
USING ESSENTIAL OILS ON YOUR DOG
- Consult you veterinarian and ask them about the proper method of using essential oils on your dog.
- It is usually vital to dilute the oils that you plan on feeding to or putting on your pet dog.
- Use fewer amounts of essential oils on smaller dogs compared to bigger ones.