Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. The extracts are obtained from various plants using one of two primary methods pressing or steaming. Extracts are obtained from multiple parts of a plant, including leaves, stems, roots, fruit, and bark.
The reason essential oils can be so costly is that it takes several pounds to create a small bottle of oil. For instance, it takes three pounds oflavender flowers to make 15 ml of essential oil.
Using essential oils for dogs can be beneficial. However, it is critical they are used and administered properly.
Essential oils have been used to help cure ailments for centuries. They can help with several different issues, from mental health to boosting one’s immune system.
Some of the more traditional uses for essential oils in dogs are:
It is critical to purchase the proper grade of essential oils before using them. Some are fine for aromatherapy but may not be safe for consumption or even topical use. And some essential oils are premixed with carrier oils, whereas others are not, so it is vital to know what you are buying to ensure proper dosing.
Also, it is vital to note that essential oils are not regulated. Meaning that the terms used to identify various grades are not monitored. However, do not disregard the grade of the oil; it still plays a role in choosing the right essential oil.
When purchasing essential oils, you will want to buy quality oils, so you will want to consider factors such as:
Instructions: Mix all ingredients well in a dark-colored bottle then spray in the area your dog spends time such as on blankets, beds, or cars. It can also be lightly sprayed on your dog around their shoulder blade area, being sure not to get it in their face and keeping it from areas they can lick.
Though you can mix a variety of oils, it is best not to go overboard, remember your dog’s sense of smell is far greater than ours.
Instructions: Mix the soap, water and one of the essential oil blends above, then apply and bathe your dog as normal. If your dog has particularly dry skin you can add a couple tablespoons of virgin coconut oil to help moisturize their skin and coat.
Instructions: Mix all ingredients well in a dark-colored bottle then spray in the area your dog spends time such as on blankets, beds, or cars. It can also be lightly sprayed on your dog’s coat, being sure not to get it in their face.
After spraying your dog using gloves, gently work the spray into your dog’s coat.
For Smoothing Muscle Ache – Using essential oils topically to help soothe aching muscles and joints, especially in dogs with arthritis, is an excellent way to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Instructions: Mix the above ingredients well and gently massage a small amount to the affected area.
Instructions: Add essential oils to the rollerball bottle then top off the bottle with a carrier oil. Shake the bottle and mix the oils well. Next, roll a small amount on your dog’s abdomen and massage the oil in.
Instructions: Using a water bath slightly warm coconut oil so that it is either in liquid form or soft enough to blend in the other oils. Next, add in the essential oils and mix until well combined. When cleaning your dog’s ears, slightly soften the oil, then using a cotton pad, gently clean your dog’s. You may also use a warm water bath to melt the oil then gently apply a small amount with the cotton pad to your dog’s inner ear.
Essential oils work as an excellent natural home remedy for your dog and are often preferable to harsh chemicals. And though essential oils are natural, that does not mean they are always safe. Some essential oil can be toxic to your dog if consumed or inhaled.
Additionally, essential oils should rarely be used without diluting them first.
When first using essential oils with your dog, it is best to start with smaller amounts of oils to ensure your dog is not sensitive to the oil. When using essential oils, always be aware that there are possible side effects, such as:
If you see any of these adverse effects, stop using the product immediately, and call your vet.
Nicole is a professional dog trainer who has been in the business for about 5 years. She has two dogs of her own. Milli is a ten-year-old Beagle with plenty of sass to go around, and Axel is her three-year-old Pit bull who has more energy than anyone knows what to do with. Both of her dogs are rescues who came to her with their own set of issues. Working with troubled dogs is where her passion for dog training started. She has grown to learn that teaching people how to communicate with their fur babies allows them to enjoy happy and stress-free lives together.
Working through a multitude of different dog problems has allowed Nicole to become very knowledgeable of the best products out there: collars, leashes, toys, treats, beds, crates, and even hiking, camping, and boating gear for pups with a more “extreme” lifestyle. Nicole is always learning and growing, so she can find what is best for her dogs and yours!
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