Hey, pawrents! It’s me, Harvey, your go-to bulldog for all things wellness. Today, we’re talking about natural remedies for common pet ailments. My brother Oreo, who’s built like a tank, has had his fair share of bumps and bruises (he thinks he’s invincible). Dewey, who is my other brother and shares my birthday, is the sensitive one. We call him Delicate Dewey at home. Mama has tried quite a few natural fixes for these two to see what works best. But not everything she tried worked! Let’s dive into what can help and what might not be worth trying.
Skin Irritations: What Works
Dewey has always had very sensitive skin. He’s had some itchy patches before, and here’s what Mama found really helps:
• Aloe Vera Gel: Great for soothing skin. Just make sure it’s pure and safe for pets.
• Oatmeal Baths: This classic works wonders for itch relief. Mix ground oats into warm water and let your pet soak for a while.
Pro Tip: HARV’s Paw Balm is also a go-to around here—perfect for Oreo’s rough paw pads after his outdoor adventures.
Upset Stomach: What Works
There is a lot of food Delicate Dewey can’t have. Mama always feels bad when she gives Oreo and me treats and Dewey can’t have any. So if he’s been chewing on something he shouldn’t or just has an upset tummy, here’s what Mama uses:
• Pumpkin: Boiled pumpkin is a natural source of fiber, offers instant energy to your dog, and helps with both diarrhea and constipation.
• Mashed sweet potato: Sweet potato is another great option packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, B6 and B5, manganese, and potassium.
• Vet Approved Probiotics: This can help increase the levels of ‘good’ bacteria in the gut and help stop ‘bad’ bacteria from overgrowing.
• Boiled Chicken: This is a good option for most dogs. However, although many pet websites and blogs will recommend chicken for upset stomachs, Dewey is allergic to chicken, so every time Mama gave him boiled chicken to soothe his stomach, it only made it worse. So make sure you know what your pup can and cannot have before giving it to them.
Anxiety: What Works
Oreo’s the zen dog of the family, but if he ever feels anxious, we’ve found these remedies really help and he loves it!!:
• Lavender Oil: The calming properties of lavender are a game changer. HARV’s calming essential oil blend contains just the right amount to help pets relax.
• Chamomile: Chamomile tea or diluted oil can soothe anxiety naturally.
Fleas and Ticks
Both Oreo and Dewey are outdoor enthusiasts, so flea and tick protection is a must.
• What Works: Neem Oil: Neem oil helps keep those pesky critters at bay. We mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to their coats.
• What Doesn’t Work: Essential Oils Alone: While oils like cedarwood can help, they aren’t enough on their own for flea prevention. Always consult your vet for the best approach.
Bad Breath:
If your dog’s breath is less than fresh, here’s what we use:
What Works
• Parsley: Adding a pinch of parsley to their food can help naturally freshen breath.
• Coconut Oil: Brushing with a dab of coconut oil fights bacteria and keeps those teeth clean.
What Doesn’t Work: Beware of These
• Tea Tree Oil: This one’s toxic to pets, so avoid it entirely, no matter what.
• Garlic: Though it’s often mentioned, garlic is dangerous for dogs and cats. Keep it far away from their food!
Conclusion: A Personal Touch to Natural Remedies
While natural remedies can be awesome, always proceed with care. What works for Oreo may not work for Dewey (or your pet), so it’s important to get your vet’s thumbs-up before trying something new. And remember, HARV’s organic products are here to support your pet’s health, naturally and safely.