Aromatherapy for Dogs
Known to be beneficial to humans, aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to reduce anxiety and calm inflammation. Aromatherapy for dogs is something you should discuss with your veterinarian before trying, so that you can have confidence in its safety and efficacy. It only makes sense that the holistic benefits of essential oils in aromatherapy can be safely used to help your furry friends as well.
Important Tips on Aromatherapy for Dogs
- The first thing you need to make sure of when using aromatherapy for dogs is that you only use 100% pure essential oils. Using cheap alternatives will lessen the therapeutic effects.
- It is important to dilute essential oils before using them on your pet. To do this, use a carrier oil such as olive or almond oil. Take 1 ounce of your carrier oil and separate it into its own bottle or container. Only add 3-6 drops of your chosen essential oil to your carrier oil.
- Use only a small amount of your essential oil mixture on small dogs, puppies, senior dogs, and dogs that are ill.
- Speak with your veterinarian before using any essential oil on a pregnant dog.
- Avoid using the following essential oils on your pet: peppermint, tea tree, cinnamon, and ylang ylang.
- Dogs who suffer from seizures should not be exposed to essential oils.
- Keep oils away from your dog’s eyes, ears, nose, and genitals.
How to Use Essential Oils for Dogs
Massaging the essential oil mixture onto the dog’s coat is the most common way that aromatherapy for dogs is explored. If you are looking to correct a skin condition, you can evenly massage the oil throughout the dog’s coat. If you are trying to relieve joint pain, focus on gently massaging the area where your dog is having discomfort. Areas that have less fur, such as the stomach will allow maximum absorption of the oils and therefore may produce better results.
Mixing your own essential oils is not the only way to enjoy their benefits. There are many shampoos and other canine products on the market that are already infused with essential oils, straight from the factory. Choose shampoos that have calming essential oils such as lavender to help calm an anxious pet.
One way that you and your pet can enjoy the benefits of essential oils together is to use them with a diffuser inside of your home. A diffuser is a small object that heats up drops of essential oil and releases particles into the air for you to breathe. This is a great way to add a therapeutic scent to your environment that you and your whole family can benefit from.
What Essential Oils Should I Use?
As the popularity of aromatherapy for dogs is on the rise, you may visit your local pet store to find special blends that are formulated for dogs. Your veterinarian may also have specific suggestions for you. If you want to try using your own essential oils, stick with the basics such as lavender, chamomile, and rosemary.
Final Thought
When it comes to using essential oils, less is more. Don’t worry if your essential oil/carrier mixture doesn’t smell very strong to you. Your dog’s nose is much more sensitive than yours, and it is much better to play on the side of safety than to put too many drops of essential oil inside of your mixture.