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Aromatherapy for DogsAromatherapy for dogs is effective in treating a number of dog health problems, such as skin irritations, ear infections,
hyperactivity, flea/tick infestations, and much more.
What is Aromatherapy for Dogs?
Aromatherapy for dogs is the therapeutic use of 100% pure essential oils and hydrosols for holistic treatments of physical and behavioral problems in dogs.
Aromatherapy for dogs is not limited to the use of grooming products that contain essential oils. It means more than that - it refers to the use of a pure,
therapeutic-grade essential oil, or several oils combined, for a certain healing purpose - either to treat a particular health problem, or to enhance the
overall health and wellbeing of the dog.
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What are Essential Oils and Hydrosols?
An essential oil is a volatile substance contained in the glandular hairs, sac, or veins of different parts of a plant, such as the leaves, flowers, bark,
roots, seeds or fruit. They are the "essence" of that particular plant form and are responsible for giving that plant its unique scent.
There are several ways to extract essential oils: steam distillation, solvent extraction, carbon dioxide extraction, or manual expression.
Contrary to what most people think, essential oils are non-oily. They are highly concentrated and should almost always be diluted before use.
Each oil has its own individual properties, such as scent, color, chemical properties, and healing effects.
On a physical level, many essential oils are antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying. On an emotional level,
some essential oils can be sedative or stimulating.
A hydrosol is a water-based substance which is a by-product obtained during the steam distillation process of an essential oil.
A hydrosol contains water-soluble parts of a plant as well as very small amount of some essential oil components. Since hydrosols are not highly
concentrated like essential oils, they can be used undiluted as is, or essential oils can be added to a hydosol for synergistic effects.
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Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?Essential oils are highly concentrated and therefore extremely potent. When using essential oils on our dogs, therefore, we should be careful not to overuse them. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (such as olive oil, sweet almond oil, etc.) before use. If we choose essential oils that are safe for dogs, and use them in diluted form, they are perfectly safe to use on dogs and are effective therapeutically for a great number of ailments. However, some essential oils, diluted or not, are unsafe for dogs and use of such oils should be avoided altogether. Here are some essential oils that should not be used on dogs:
How can I use Essential Oils on my Dogs?Aromatherapy for dogs can be applied topically (through massage), by diffusion and inhalation, or orally.
Topical application is the most commonly used technique, and has the greatest benefit because the oils are applied directly to the area(s) needed.
The oils penetrate the skin and are quickly absorbed by tiny capillaries which carry them to the bloodstream.
Essential oils can be topically applied via massage, or via spritzers, sprays, and of course the oils can also be added to shampoos, conditioners, salves, ointments, etc.
Remember, the oils have to be diluted before use. Carrier vegetable oils, such as olive oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, can be used.
Diffusion and inhalation is another way to practice aromatherapy for dogs. A diffuser is used to evaporate the oils which are inhaled by the dog.
Leave the diffuser on for about 30 to 40 minutes in order for the dog to inhale and absorb the oils. You should be able to see result if you repeat this
procedure twice daily for five to seven days.
Oral application of essential oils to dogs should only be done under the supervision of a holistic veterinarian. As the oils are highly concentrated
and potent, extreme care has to be taken to avoid overdose. And of course, some essential oils are not suitable for ingestion at all.
For home remedies, therefore, it is advisable to limit yourself to the first two techniques (topical application and inhalation).
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Aromatherapy for Dogs - Precautions
References K.L. Bell Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals (Findhorn Press, 2002). A.D. Shojai New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs and Cats (Rodale Press, 1999). Japan Pet Aromatherapy Association TOP OF Aromatherapy for Dogs |
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