Holistic Health Care for Dogs
In many cases the same principles that apply to a healthy, natural life for people can help your pet live a healthy, happy life. This often starts with a healthy environment, good sleeping conditions, proper food with nutritional value and a loving rapport.
Nutrition and Natural Care of Your Dog
As in people, many problems can be prevented or eliminated with the proper diet. The best diet for your pet includes food designed for their anatomical design, with a variety of whole foods and proper vitamin and mineral levels.
The dog’s digestive system includes a short intestinal tract which facilitates the digestion of raw foods. For most pets, a home prepared raw diet is superior to commercial dry foods. Some veterinarians would recommend a diet which is half raw and half prepared foods.
Commercial Food Problems
The recent scare of contaminated pet foods was enough for many pet owners to consider other options. The benefit of a healthy diet for your pet is the reduction in trips to the vet. Ulcers, kidney problems, allergies and other health problems in dogs are often traced to their diet.
Home Remedies for Dogs
A healthy diet rich in vegetables and herbs can reduce the presence of mites and the development of mange.
Lavender
Lavender, almond or neem oils can be applied to the dog’s skin after bathing. The recommended remedy is one part lavender oil, nine parts almond oil and one part neem oil.
Exercise
Dogs need activity. Especially as the dog ages, the need for exercise and activity becomes a preventative measure for health conditions. Joint issues and mobility can be aggravated by a lack of activity.
Grooming
Many of the sources of infection or irritation attach to the dog’s fur from trips outside. Check the pet’s coat for mites, ticks and other foreign bodies that can attach to skin. Proper bathing and brushing will increase immunity and resistance to skin issues.
Trim and Fit
Obesity causes problems in dogs much in the way it causes problems for people. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight will reduce many of the health issues they may encounter. Increase activity and switch to a leaner diet for dogs that are experiencing weight gain. Be mindful that dogs can not cool off in the same way as people, so it is important not to overexert your pet in hot, humid conditions.
Broken Toenails
Dipping the dog’s toenail in cornstarch may stop the bleeding. Be certain that the toe nail hasn’t cut the quick, is bleeding persistently or is infected. Filing nails will prevent over trimming.
Digestive Problems
Again, a healthy diet free from allergens is a great way to prevent digestive problems. Adding yogurt with active cultures can help restore balance to the dog’s digestive system in the same way it works for the owners. Be certain the dog has ample access to clean water at all times.
