Are Essential Oils Safe for your dog?

Are essential oils safe for dogs

The popularity of essential oils have been on the rise lately. There are many oils on the market that claim to treat all types of ailments. Many people use them for weight loss, pain relief, as well as for many other health related problems.

These oils can be applied on the skin or added to an air diffuser. There are many different types of uses but the question is are they safe for our pets?   There are quite a few oils that should not be used, below are just a few.

Anise
Camphor
Cassia
Cloves
Garlic
Goosefoot
Juniper
Mugwort
Oregano Red and White Thyme
Sassafras
Tea Tree Oil
Wintergreen
Wormwood

Some oils that are safe include Lemon and Lavender.  Lavender is said to soothe a dog and calm their anxiety. Currently, this is the only oil that I use in my room when Ginger is with me, I add a few drops to my diffuser as it also aids in sleeping, plus I love the smell of it.

Are essential oils safe for dogs
Melaleuca Air Diffuser

According to an article on Rover, BARK Magazine revealed that veterinarians use essential oils in disparate ways. “They were diffusing lavender in waiting and exam rooms, using essential oils for odor control, doing light massage with frankincense, blending lemongrass in sweet almond oil for cruciate or joint injuries.” Other uses include everything from increasing appetite in dogs to combating fatigue and addressing an animal’s physical and emotional issues.

Below are some guidelines provided by Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals:

  • Don’t use essential oils on puppies until they are ten weeks old.
  • Use essential oils in moderation with dogs, especially old, pregnant, or ill dogs.
  • Always dilute essential oils for dogs. Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals recommends starting with a one to two percent dilution. (A one percent dilution is one drop of essential oil in one teaspoon of carrier oil.)
  • Understand the difference between dilution and dosage. Dilution is the amount of essential oil in the carrier base. Dosage is the amount of the final blend used with a dog, expressed in number of drops or in spritzes, if using a spray. Use smaller dosages for small dogs than for larger dogs.
  • Use only the highest quality essential oils that are therapeutic grade.
  • Spot test an essential oil or blend on a small area before using it on a larger area to make sure the dog isn’t sensitive.
  • Keep essential oils away from the dog’s eyes, nose, and genitals.
  • If your dog shows any signs of distress (whining, panting, drooling, and so forth) around an essential oil, stop using it.

Again if you do decide that you want to try essential oils its best to consult with your dog’s veterinarian. If your vet is not well versed you can always contact a holistic vet. They will provide you with a full list of oils to use, what their healing properties are and what safety protocol to use.

Do you use essential oils with your pets? If so, please share your experience in the comment section below.

 

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It is with a heavy heart that I announce the loss of our beloved darling, Ginger. She passed away July 16, 2020 at 14.5 years old. She battled CHF for as long as she could but her little body could take no more. Our hearts are shattered.
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