Parsley for Dogs

Main Constituents

• protein
• Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, and K
• fiber
• calcium
• riboflavin
• potassium
• iron
• magnesium
• niacin
• phosphorus

Medicinal Activities

• nutritive
• lowers blood pressure
• diuretic
• antimicrobial
• carminative
• helps reduce arthritic inflammation
• a breath freshener

Common Uses in Dogs

Parsley leaves and stems are very nutritive, and can therefore be used to treat dogs with anemia. The leaves also have antiseptic properties and are helpful in treating urinary tract infections.

This herb is diuretic and is therefore useful in boosting kidney function.

In addition, it is a carminative herb which strengthens intestinal muscles. It is therefore effective in treating colic and flatulent dyspepsia.

To feed parsley to your dog as a nutritive tonic or treat urinary or gastric disorders, try to make juice out of fresh leaves by adding water to some fresh leaves and blend them in a blender or juicer. Feed the juice directly to your dog with an empty stomach or add to his drinking water. (1 teaspoon/20 lbs of the dog's body weight).

Parsley root is excellent in treating dogs with arthritis. For this purpose, a tincture (1-2 ml/30 lbs of body weight) or a strong tea of the dried or freshly grated root (1-2 teaspoon of tea) can be used.

Precautions

Avoid using this herb during a dog's pregnancy, or if the dog is suffering from inflammation of the kidneys.

Availability

Available in various form (e.g. tea, tincture, fresh or dried herb) from health food stores and herb retailers. References

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).