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Natural Remedies for Dog Heart Problems
Dog heart problems can effectively be treated and supported by herbs such as hawthorn and other natural remedies and supplements.
As mentioned in our page on congestive heart failure in dogs, heart disease
per se can rarely be cured.
Conventional treatment of heart disease in dogs is to use medicine to counteract the symptoms in an attempt to extend the life of the sick dog.
However, some conventional medication for dog heart problems can cause side effects which may put additional burden on the already weakened dog's body.
Natural remedies such as herbs, together with supplements, can greatly improve the life quality of a dog with heart disease - without the side effects.
If your dog has been diagnosed with heart disease, it is advisable to consult with a holistic veterinarian so that a natural holistic treatment program can be designed
for your dog.
Herbal Remedies for Dog Heart Problems
Herbs can be used to tackle dog heart problems from three approaches:
- Using heart-supporting herbs to strengthen the heart.
- Using diuretic herbs to stimulate the kidneys to eliminate the excess fluids in the lungs and/or other organs.
- Using other supportive herbs to stimulate blood circulation.
Here are some great herbs that can be used on dogs with heart problems:
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is the herb for the heart. It normalizes heart activity by strengthening a weak or
erratic heartbeat and it also dilates blood vessels of the heart and the brain. In addition, it is an antioxidant that helps remove free radicals that take away oxygen
from the blood. It is a safe herb and can be used as a tonic for dogs with a weakened heart.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo acts on both the cardiovascular and nervous systems. In particular, it improves circulation by
preventing or reducing the release of platelet-activating factor (PAF), the substance that increases blood stickiness. Ginkgo also maintains the elasticity of the blood
vessels.
Dandelion
When a dog's heart is not pumping strong enough, causing fluid to build up in the lungs or other areas, a diuretic drug or herb can be used to help reduce the fluid
build-up, thus reducing the load on the heart. Dandelion is a mild diuretic that also supports
the liver and rich in potassium. Using dandelion is better than using diuretic drugs (e.g. furosemide) since such drugs usually deplete the body of potassium, causing
adverse effects on all muscles including of course heart muscles.
Parsley
Parsley is a mild diuretic and it is also effective for liver support.
Cayenne
Cayenne is considered a tonic herb but it is extremely helpful for dogs with heart problems because
cayenne stimulates blood circulation. In addition, it strengthens the heart, blood vessels and nerves.
Siberian Ginseng
Ginseng has been used for thousands of years in Asia as a tonic, especially for the heart.
When used as a heart tonic to treat dog heart problems, ginseng regulates heart rate and provides much needed energy and vitality to old dogs and those who are suffering
from heart problems.
Garlic
A compound in garlic is effective at preventing blood clot formation in the vascular system.
It can also reduce cholesterol levels and fat buildup in the arteries (atheorsclerosis). Therefore, it is an excellent cardiovascular tonic for dogs with heart problems.
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Supplements for Dog Heart Problems
Natural nutritional supplements should be given to your dog if he has heart disease. The following supplements are essential:
Coenzyme Q10
This enzyme is beneficial to the heart. It acts as an antioxidant
that strengthens the heart muscles and improves heart muscle oxygenation.
Here is a good natural product of CoQ10:
Vetri-Science Coenzyme Q10 - 10 mg
Vitamins A, B6, C, and E
These vitamins are antioxidants and are essential as they help remove free radicals from
the body, thus preventing damage caused to the heart by the free radicals.
Essential Fatty Acids
Fatty acids, such as fish oil, evening primrose, or borage oil, are also beneficial
to heart patients since they help protect muscle cells.
A great product can be found here:
Integrative Therapeutics Eskimo 3 Fish Oil
Amino Acids - L-Taurine and L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid which plays a vital role in the metabolism of fat. To put it simply, it enables cells to carry fatty acids (fuel) to
the heart.
L-Taurine is a building block for all the other amino acids. L-Taurine is found to be able to reduce the risk of heart disease risk by maintaining a normal output of
potassium from the heart muscles.
If you dog is suffering from heart disease, supplementing him with these amino acids can greatly improve the condition. It is also advisable to start supplementing
your dog with these amino acids if he is starting to show some signs of heart failure.
Magnesium and Selenium
These two minerals are essential in improving heart function.
Natural Supplements for Dog Heart Problems - Good Products
Vetri-Science Cardio-Strength for Cats/Small Dogs 30 Caps
This formula contains cardio-support vitamins, minerals and amino acids such as L-Taurine, L-Carnitine, Dimethylglycine (DMG), EPA, Vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, Magnesium,
Potassium and Selenium. It supports cardiovascular function and is beneficial to dogs (and cats!) with low cardio output, and those experiencing weakness or difficulty
breathing. It is also a must for elderly dogs or for those at risk for heart disease.
Genesis Resources Canine Cardiovascular Support for Dogs
Another highly effective formula that benefits the entire cardiovascular system. It contains Vitamin E, Magnesium, Selenium, Grape Seed extract, CoQ10, Hawthorn, and
Siberian Ginseng. Highly recommended for dogs with congestive heart failure or other congenital heart abnormalities.
Animals' Apawthecary Hawthorn Plus
This herbal formula include hawthorn, ginkgo, and garlic. It provides circulatory support in dogs through the antioxidant and strenthening activities of these herbs.
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Related Topic
Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs
References
D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
TOP of Natural Remedies for Dog Heart Problems
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