Can Dogs Benefit From Herbal Supplements

Should you be providing your dog or cat herbal
nutritional supplement? Known by the FDA as
"neutraceuticals," natural vitamin supplements
are not totally monitored because they are not
identified as medicines. For this reason, you
can easily obtain them without a vet's
prescription, and they are typically much less
expensive than your medicinal purchases from
your vet. However, not all herbal nutritional
supplement are equally safe for cats and
canines, and keeping your animal medical
practitioner out of the loop might just have
unlucky repercussions for your pet, especially
if it is already ingesting prescription
medicines.

Pet owners often worry that their pets are not
getting enough nutrition in the commercial dog
food that is available on the market today.
Although ingredients are usually listed,
determining if your pet is getting enough
specific nutrients can be difficult, if not
impossible. If you are aware that your pet has
special needs, adding herbs to its daily meal is
an easy and less expensive way to bolster its
health. Generally, herbal supplements have fewer
side effects than some of the more traditional
medicines; however, that fact does not mean all
dietary extras are absolutely safe and harmless.
Some may cause serious problems such as allergic
reactions, liver or heart damage, or anemia.

The following supplements may have some benefit
for your pet:

Tea Tree Oil is a topical, antimicrobial product
that can help control external parasites such as
fleas, and itching from bites or dry skin. It
also has healing properties for cuts or wounds.
However, it can be toxic for cats that choose to
lick it off and for small pets in general because
of the potency of the oil.

Black Walnut is a natural de-wormer for internal
parasites such as heartworm. Vomiting and
diarrhea can result from too much, and
veterinary supervision is wise.

German Chamomile has a natural sedating effect,
but it can cause abortion in pregnant female
pets.

Red Clover has been used in animal cancer
treatments because of its diuretic and
blood-cleansing properties. It does contain
Coumadin, so its tendency to inhibit
blood-clotting could become an issue.

Echinacea is often recommended early in
treatment of a pet disease because it tends to
boost the immune system.

Garlic can ward off parasites, handle microbial
infections and even battle cancer. However,
given in too large doses or for too long a
period of time, it can produce anemia in dogs.

If you are considering using dog nutritional
supplements, always choose a reputable company
from which to purchase your products. Follow the
package directions exactly. This usually means
matching the dosage to your pet's weight. Do not
assume that if it is recommended for your dog, it
will automatically work for the cat as well. And
don't think that if a product is safe for you,
it is also safe for your animal friends.

Informing your veterinarian of your intention to
supplement with herbal products is extremely
important. Not all vets appreciate
neutraceuticals or herbal treatments, but, more
importantly, your pet's doctor will know whether
your additives will be helpful or harmful. Taking
good care of your dog or cat is important.
Because this is your vet's goal as well as
yours, work as a team. Your pet will thank you.

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Nutritional herbal supplements can benefit your
animals nutritional requirements. Resourced from
http://www.chudleys.com

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