Herbal and natural holistic remedies can be the most wonderful ways to
help our beloved animal companions. We love and use all of the following
products and believe that they have all made a difference. We especially like to
find products that are not alcohol based, and have included those for you.
We have labored through various noise-based anxieties and hypervigilance. Our
Alfie, pictured here, and our Darcy have been fearful of thunderstorms,
fireworks, and unanticipated noise intrusions. So, we have tried many,
many remedies. The most success has come from holistic remedies rather than
prescription medications. While the products detailed below do not work for
every dog, a majority of dogs have received much comfort from this use.
Maitake-DMG Liquid Immune System Supplement
MAITAKE-DMG Liquid™ is a combination of two
well-researched nutrients for immune system support.* Maitake PD-Fraction™ is a standardized extract of
Maitake mushroom that contains the D-Fraction, one of
naturešs most comprehensive immune support compounds.
This extract is combined with DMG, which is well-known
for its immunoproperties and may play a significant role
in maintaining health by supporting the bodyšs immune
system functions. Together these two potent nutrients
help support immune system function and help maintain
optimal health in your companion animal.
Maitake is
the Japanese name for the edible fungus Grifola frondosa,
a fungus which is characterized by a large fruiting body and
overlapping caps. It has been used traditionally
both as a food and for medicinal purposes. It stimulates
the immune system by presenting unique macromolecules to
the intestinal tract, where they alter the immune
regulation by intestinal antigen processing systems. In
addition, maitake mushroom extract has been shown to
activate NK Killer cells which attack tumor cells and to
prevent the destruction of T-Helper cells.
Cost
ARTH-9, 120 tablets This is a comprehensive formula for Bone, Joint, Ligament and Cartilage
Function from Rx Vitamins. ARTH-9 is a scientifically designed formula that provides essential
nutrients for bone, joint, ligament and cartilage function.* This unique formula
includes glucosamine sulfate, a natural compound present in joint cartilage.
This aminomonosaccharide has been shown to play an integral role in maintaining
healthy connective tissue and cartilage.* ARTH-9 is fortified with Vitamin C,
calcium and zinc l-monomethionine to aid in tissue repair,* bromelain to help
maintain joint flexibility* and chondroitin sulfate, another important component
of articular cartilage.
ARTH-9 is similar to Cosequin, but more comprehensive in actrion. It has
additional nutrients to stimulate healthy cartilage and aid in tissue repair.
The added Bromelain decreases inflammation. Boswellin and Circumin both promote
joint healing, increase synovial fluids, and speed the healing of cartilage.
Four Capsules (2 per meal, 4 daily) provide:
Natrol Melatonin 3mg, 240 tablets Melanin is a neurohormone, that is, a hormone produced by neurosecretory
cells, usually in the brain. In adults, melatonin is considered a natural way to
promote a more a more restful, relaxing night’s sleep. However, in our furry
companions, Melatonin has a different effect. Unlike people on melatonin, most
dogs don't sleep.
Dr. Nicholas Dodman and Dr. Linda Aronson of Tufts University's Veterinary
Medical School Animal Behavior Clinic became interested in melatonin for noise
phobic dogs. The first dog to try it was Dr. Aronson's own Bearded Collie who
had severe thunder phobia after lightening struck very near her house. The
effect was dramatic as her dog simply stopped being afraid, no longer tearing
around the house and digging at the carpets. The melatonin did not put her to
sleep, she stayed awake and alert—just not bothered by
the thunder. Drs. Dodman and Aronson then gave the melatonin to other dogs and
produced the same result. Melatonin worked for other noise fears, including
fireworks.
Dr. Linda Aronson says melatonin works for about 80 percent of her patients and
can turn their fears into
acceptance or indifference in 10 to 15 minutes. Aronson said that melatonin is
safe to use as long as necessary as there appears to be no habituation. "The
dose for dogs is 1 milligram for dogs under 10 pounds, 1.5 milligrams for dogs
10-25 pounds, 3 milligrams for dogs weighing 25-100 pounds and whereas 3
milligrams is often enough for dogs over 100 pounds, you can give them up to 6
milligrams," Aronson said. Aronson cautions people to use plain melatonin
tablets, not sublingual, time release or capsule forms.
Dr. Aronson has also noted that a dosage of up to 3 times daily can be used for
animals with more generalized stress related disorders.
Some dogs do well with melatonin in their system before the noises begin.
Therefore, give the first dose at least 30 minutes before you expect fireworks
or thunder to begin. Aronson said you can give up to three doses a day, so if
you live in a very unpredictable neighborhood, you can give it to your animals
when you get up and repeat as necessary.
You can give your dog melatonin
before you leave for the day if thunderstorms are predicted because it remains
effective for several hours. Otherwise, give it when thunder seems imminent.
Give melatonin immediately when you see your dog becoming agitated. If your dog
has an automimmune disease or severe liver or kidney disease, check with your
veterinarian before giving melatonin.
Alcohol Free Herbs for Kids Chamomile Calm, 2 oz. Chamomile Calm calms, balances and nourishes the nervous system. This blend is
wonderful for soothing the over-energized, anxious, or exhausted child. It is
also wonderful for our furry friends.
This combination of relaxing herbs
relieves tension throughout the body, encouraging the free flow of creative
energy and appropriate responses to stress. Nerve support herbs can help calm
any stressful occasion: fear, pain, travel, teething, illness, thunderstorms,
fireworks, etc.
Contents: A proprietary blend of an extract of Skullcap herb,
Chamomile flowers, Fennel seed, Hops strobiles and Catnip herb. Other
Ingredients: Kosher Coconut and/or Palm kernel glycerin, purified water and
citric acid.
Directions: Shake well. Take directly or mix in small
amount of water.
Weight
Amount
Up to 24 lbs
1.0 ml, 3 times daily
24-48 lbs
1.0 to 2.0 ml, 3 times daily
49-95 lbs
2.0 ml, 3-4 times daily
Over 95 lbs
3.0 ml, 3-4 times daily
Alcohol Free Animals' Apawthecary Tranquility Herbal Extract
Blend, 1 oz. Tranquility Blend is thought to reduce physical tension and bring about a
more relaxed state without impairing motor function or mental alertness.
Holistic veterinarians have been using this formula in situations where
nervousness or nerve dysfunction plays a negative factor in the well-being of
the animal. It is intended as a general calming agent for cases of acute
anxiety, such as trips to the groomer, thunderstorms, or the dreaded car trip,
excess barking, trips to the vets, nervous disorders, and fear of noises such as
fireworks and thunder.
General calming agent Reduces
physical tension Treats
acute anxiety Great
for thunderstorms,
fireworks, car rides & more
Ingredients: Certified Organic Valerian root, Skullcap herb, Oat
flower, ethically wild-crafted Passionflower herb, vegetable glycerin, distilled
water. Alcohol free. Suggested dosage: 20-40 drops as needed.
High Quality, Safe & Earth Friendly
Animals' Apawthecary Herbal Tinctures, the number 1 choice of holistic
veterinarians, are safe, effective and easy to administer. All herbs used
are selected from the highest quality certified organic or sustainably
wild-harvested quality of American sources, hand-picked under optimum conditions
for maximum potency by people who truly care about the survival of native plant
species. They are formulated from the highest quality human food or supplement
grade ingredients by leading veterinary herbalists who are intimately familiar
with the needs and sensitivities of dogs and cats. The extraction process uses
pure vegetable glycerin rather than alcohol to produce high quality, naturally
balanced herbal tinctures with a sweet flavor that appeals to the taste buds of
most dogs and cats.
Dosage
Guidelines
Dogs
12-20 (0.5ml) drops for
each 20 lbs. of animal body weight, twice daily
Cats
12-20 (0.5ml) drops, twice
daily
As Tranquility Blend tastes sweet, it can be squirted directly into the mouth
of your dog or can be added to his/her drinking water or food. Please keep in
mind that no two animals are alike—the amount needed
for effectiveness will vary from animal to animal.
Chemical Free Pet Aromatics Paw Pleaser Protective
Moisturizing & Conditioning Balm, 2oz. "Boy are my dogs tired". Those are words you may never hear
your dog speak but one look at his or her paws and you will see for
yourself that their paws need attention. Paws are the first line of defense against the harsh effects of icy cold or
hot sidewalks, gravel and uncomfortable surfaces in general. This
can be potentially painful and take a toll on your dog's natural
shoes.
Chemical Free Non Allergenic No Paraffin Safe to lick after applied Puppy safe Does not stain Dries quickly
The luxurious high grade Shea and Coco butter base will sooth,
condition, moisturize and relieve dry and cracked paws. The Green
Tea is extracted from the leaf & bud of the camellia sinensis plant
and is known for its organic anti inflammatory properties.
The Grapeseed extract is taken from mature ground seeds of
California grown Vinifera grapes and is a natural source at
strengthening and protecting living tissue. Both are rich in anti
oxidants that help prevent and neutralize free radical damage.
The nourishing natural vitamin rich
oils and fatty acids of Sweet Almond, Olive, Apricot and Vegetable
are easily and gently absorbed in tender, sensitive paws. Also
enriched with Bees Wax, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and Palm Leaf Powder.
Herbal Remedies
for Dogs and Cats: A Pocket Guide to Selection and Use
Written by
Mary Wulff-Tilford and Gregory L. Tilford, this
easy-to-use reference puts practical information
into the hands of those who wish wish to use herbs in holistic care. The
contents are:
Page 1: How to use herbs naturally and effectively, using
principles that address the overall health of your animal, and the
underlying causes of disease. Pages 2-3: Understanding what herbs can and cannot do for your
animal friend, what dose to start with, diet considerations, and
learning the correct herbs to use by recognizing the medicinal actions
and special affinities of plants. Pages 3-5: The most common forms of herb preparations are
described, and their uses, pros and cons in relation to animal care are
discussed. Pages 6-23: An easy to use reference to 64 useful herbs,
including information on specific uses, preparation, administration, and
cautions relative to their safe use in dogs and cats. Pages 24-27: Nine compound formulations are identified and
cross-referenced with their indications, dosages, and contraindications;
to serve dozens of applications—from flaky
skin and bad breath to urinary tract disorders and arthritis. Pages 29-29: Common ailments are cross-referenced to
lists of possible herbal remedies—to serve as
a starting point from which you can develop a personalized herbal approach.
Mary Wulff-Tilford is
a professional member of the American Herbalist's Guild who devotes her
time and expertise to the holistic care of animals. Founder of Animals'
Apawthecary, she is respected as a leading holistic pet care consultant
and teacher, by holistic veterinarians and animal owners worldwide.
Gregory L. Tilford is co-owner and formulating herbalist of Animals'
Apawthecary. He is a contributing editor and herb advisor for Natural
Pet magazine, and is the founding president of the Natural Pets Products
Association. Greg is author of two books on wild medicinal plants:
The EcoHerbalist's Fieldbook and
Edible & Medicinal Plants of the West. And, his newest book
Herbs
for Pets, is a
great book to have as well.