Itchy skin, upset tummy, bites, and other ailments your four-legged family member may encounter can be a soothed with essential oils. As with humans, these oils offer a great alternative to prescription medications and over-the-counter products that may contain harmful chemicals.
People-pleasing
Lavender is a fetch for dogs, too. Its relaxing fragrance is known to reduce
emotional stress and anxiety with humans and can offer the same benefits for Fido. It can calm him and reduce
hyperactivity.
Lavender can help relieve flea bites, as well as
repel fleas. Use it to help heal wounds, bruises and burns, and as an
antiseptic.
Do
loud noises like fireworks or thunder cause your pup
anxiety? Try
Lavender or
Stress Away. Rub a drop on the palm of your hand and pat your dog’s ears or head.
Dogs like to play, and sometimes that comes with scrapes or cuts.
Helichrysum, like lavender, can have some of the same benefits for dogs as it does humans. It helps heal bruises and wounds—physical and emotional, can be used as an antiseptic, is a great skin tonic, helps clear mucus from the lungs, heals broken capillaries,
aids digestion, and supports the immune system.
Frankincense is another good essential oil to calm your dog and help ease any anxiety.
HOW TO USE:
Essential oils can be applied topically to your dog. Dilute the essential oils—approximately three to six drops of oil in an ounce of carrier oil, or about 20 drops in eight ounces of shampoo, or 0.1%-1% oil to water ratio. Use less for small dogs than for big ones. You can also use a spray bottle with a few drops of oil mixed with water to apply topically.
Apply/massage your diluted oil to the area where it’s needed. The oils are quickly absorbed. You can also apply by “petting”—rub the diluted oil in your hands, then pet your pooch with both hands.
Use a diffuser for aromatherapy or put a drop of oil on your dog’s collar or bed.
Keep away from your pet’s eyes, nose, inside of his ears, and private area.
Only use essential oils that are safe for dogs. There are some oils to avoid. A few of these include thyme, oregano, and pennyroyal. Give Fido oils once or twice a day. If he doesn’t want them, no need to push the issue. Simply use a diffuser and if you don’t have one, a bowl of hot water with a few drops of essential oils will do the same trick.
UPDATE: We now have 3 new Pre-Diluted Ready to Apply Dog Oils!