With growing interest in holistic care, many people are curious about using essential oils on their canine friends. At last, Aromatherapy and its fragrant uses have crossed over to the canine world.

Aromatherapy is a developing industry. We are life long students but unfortunately, there is not one absolute voice in the industry. We must approach aromatherapy with inquiring minds and be prepared to ask questions, research on our own, and then ask more questions. In time, we will be better prepared to make our own informed decisions when evaluating information presented.

Also we have to keep in mind that the use of herbs, essential oils, hydrosols and other natural ingredients requires one to exercise the same care as they would with any medication. As I continue, I will repeat the words �external use� when talking about essential oils and dogs, since it is my personal view that this is the safest method for dogs.

Essence is made in plants by special cells and only becomes an essential oil after distillation. Essential Oils are volatile and are either distilled (steam, water) or expressed and work either by inhalation (thru the olfactory system) or if used topically can provide skin and coat health for dogs.

Though our dogs� senses are quite similar to ours, their sense of smell surpasses ours. For example the average dog has over 200 million scent receptors (working dogs can have 230 to 300 million), while humans possess a mere 5 million. When using essential oils, one must consider a canine�s extraordinary sense of smell. I would suggest minimum use of any fragrant substance on service dogs (Search and Rescue, K9 Police etc.) and never before they are deployed.

When essential oils are applied to skin and coat via grooming product (shampoo, spray), they can help deodorize, repel insects, sooth minor rashes, bug bites, cuts and burns. I would highly recommend using Hydrosols first on dogs that have skin problems. They are gentler than essential oils and work quite well on puppies, older dogs, and pregnant or nursing females.

Hydrosols are water-based and can become contaminated. For example, even touching the neck of the bottle or inside the cap with your fingers can contaminate a hydrosol. It�s recommended that for long-term storage they be kept in glass containers and in a cool (can be refrigerated to extend shelf life), dark location. Once again Hydrosols and Essential Oils should be purchased from reputable dealers only. Ask the supplier if they test their hydrosols to ensure that there are no microbial, fungal or mold contamination present.

Anyone interested in using essential oils on their dogs should choose Aromatherapy Grade oils (rather than Commercial Grade) and must learn to dilute them properly. Use of 100% Hydrosols (not floral waters) are quite suitable alternatives for puppies and all sensitive dogs. My favorites are Rose, Neroli, Lavender, Chamomile, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Bay Leaf, Oregano and Witch Hazel.

It is important to realize that any person or any pet can have adverse reactions to essential oils, herbs and many other natural ingredients, so extreme care should be taken. For example increased skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation or natural sunlight can occur after use of some citrus oils (expressed Bergamot). Someone exposed to the same essential oil on a regular basis can develop sensitization, but this can happen even without repeated use and especially if the essential oil being used is undiluted or improperly diluted. Once someone shows signs of sensitization to an essential oil, this is quite serious as this may be permanent, meaning that individual or dog may never use this essential oil again.

Aromatherapeutic substances can be used in ointments, sprays and grooming products, via inhalation and massage. Yes, you did read the massage part correctly.

Canine massage can be very beneficial for all dogs. It can calm nerves, soothe sore muscles and increase the blood flow throughout the body. Human touch is powerful and through massage you will strengthen your bond with your dog. Remember to observe your canine friend, use gentle strokes and do not put pressure on sore spots.

CONTINUE  INDEX