If you are like me, your dog is not just a pet, he is a member of your family and as such, you only want what is best for him. Unfortunately, not all pet products are as they advertise, even if they are listed as “safe” and “effective”, this does not guarantee that they are also natural as many have an extensive list of ingredients.
When you desire the best for your dog, consider using essential oils as an easy way to gain many of the same effects as these products with a fraction of the ingredients.
Aromatherapy for Dogs
Aromatherapy can be used for more than just making your dog smell better, and while that is an added benefit - pure, natural essential oils and hydrosols have other benefits and, when used appropriately, they can be effective in treating an array of dog health problems – such as skin irritations, motion sickness, and certain behavioral problems, like hyperactivity.
The most important thing to remember when treating your dog with essential oils is to make sure they are 100% pure and therapeutic. This point cannot be stressed enough! Cheap "essential oils" can contain synthetic substances. These do not have the therapeutic effects and the added chemicals may harm your dog!
Are Essential Oils really safe for my dog?
Therapeutic essential oils are highly concentrated and very potent. This means being extremely careful when using oils on your dog. You should always dilute essential oils with water or a carrier oil before use.
These essential oils are perfectly safe to use on your dog when properly diluted.
How can I apply Essential Oils for my dog?
Topical application is the most common way to apply essential oils. It can be applied directly to the skin as needed, and is quickly absorbed. Oils can be topically applied via massage, spritzers, and sprays. Essential oils can also be added to shampoos, conditioners, salves, ointments, and other products.
Diffusion is another way to apply essential oils. The oil is mixed into a water vapor that the dog can inhale. Results can be seen if a diffuser is used twice a day, for 5-7 days, 30-40 minutes at a time.
Concerned about ticks?
One of the best known treatments with essential oils is to protect dogs from ticks. Personally I would rather deter the ticks than sit with tweezers hoping I got all of it out of my dog.
You can apply a single drop to the base of the tail and another to the area between the shoulder blades of our Rose Geranium Oil prior to taking your furry friend outdoors. Repeat this every time you return to the outdoors. If you are uncomfortable applying directly to your pet, many owners choose to place a drop on the dog collar instead.
Another option is to make your own Rose Geranium Essential Oil Tick Spray by following the recipe below.
Yields: 1 Spray Bottle
Combine the following ingredients:
40 drops of GreenHealth Rose Geranium Oil
⅓ cup of distilled water
1 tablespoon of Witch Hazel
Shake the bottle before use.
Your dog is not the only one who can benefit from this spray, you can also spray some on yourself or your clothes to prevent ticks.
Safety First!
Rose Geranium Essential Oil is non-toxic, non-irritant and generally non-sensitizing, though it can cause sensitivity in some people and due to the fact that it balances the hormonal system, it should be avoided during pregnancy
Always check with your vet before using an essential oil on your pet. - Not recommended for cats.