Homeopathic pet remedies, similar to human homeopathy, is a natural medicine that is used in extremely small doses which stimulates the immune system at the most basic atomic and sub-atomic levels, prompting the pet's own body’s healing system to return the pet's body back to a healthy condition.
According to the American Pet Products Association, pet ownership is at 62% among American households. Therefore, having a healthy and happy pet requires learning about the animal, and then caring and providing for it accordingly. Natural remedies can help pets with mental, physical, and emotional conditions. There are books available that describe in detail about how to care for a pet in a natural way, whether it is a cat, dog, horse, or any type of animal. Shampoos and conditioners are available to keep the pet’s coat and skin healthy. Other natural remedies keep the eyes clean, the ears healthy and free from wax and infections, and the paws from cracking because of dryness.
What is Homeopathy for Pets?
Homeopathy addresses the mental and emotional reasons behind an illness, as most natural healing experts agree that illness is the result of an emotional imbalance in the body. It has been used with people for many years, and is becoming increasingly recognized as a viable alternative treatment for pets, as well. Many pet owners and holistic veterinarians use homeopathic remedies since they can help heal pets of many emotional, physical, and mental health problems.
Homeopathy stimulates the immune system directly on the most basic level. Few medical modalities can accomplish this. Homeopathy works with the organism on the sub-atomic and atomic levels, going to the root of the problem. It is a natural medicine that uses medically active substances in extremely small doses that stimulate the immune system to allow for self-healing.
What Kinds of Homeopathic Treatments are Available for Pets?
There are numerous homeopathic pet remedies for all kinds of illnesses and situations, including fever treatments, wound and shock remedies, and substances that help ease stings and bites. Other remedies include treatments and/or preventatives for gum infections, digestive issues, and cysts. In general, homeopathic remedies are thought to be safe and effective for pets. To make sure the right treatments are used, however, an owner may want to take the pet to a homeopathic veterinarian for professional diagnosis and treatment.
Some types of homeopathic treatments are intended for treating different types of wounds. For example, arnica, a perennial plant, may be used for treating injuries to soft tissues, such as bruising and head traumas. It can also be used for the prevention of infections after an injury. To help speed up the healing of wounds, a pet owner may use homeopathic calendula, which is derived from a type of marigold plant. Since calendula closes a wound quickly, do not apply until drainage of the wound has stopped. Drainage may be necessary for all the infection to exit the wound first. Hypericum, also called St. John’s wort, is a flowering plant that may help in the treatment of lacerated wounds where the nerve endings are damaged.
Other types of homeopathic treatments for pets are used to treat bites and stings. For example, if a pet is stung by a wasp, ledum may be used, which is derived from an evergreen shrub. Urtica, a homeopathic made from an annual herb plant, may be more effective for treating a pet suffering from a bee sting. If a pet has been bitten by a snake, hypericum may be a helpful natural treatment.
Like people, a pet can suffer from shock, which is when blood flow is suddenly reduced through the body, and is accompanied by confusion and weakness. A homeopathic remedy for this condition may be to use aconite, a homeopathic created from a type of Eurasian herb. It may also be used to prevent shock from happening from a serious injury while the pet is being transported to a vet. Aconite may additionally aid with anxiety, restlessness, or some types of fear. It is often employed for the fear that results from hearing thunder or other loud noises.
When a pet has a fever, there are several treatments that may help. Aconite is preferred for fever treatment if the pet has been exposed to cold or seems particularly agitated. Bryonia, a homeopathic derived from a perennial herb, may be chosen when the pet cannot move. Belladonna, made from a vine-like plant, is often useful when pets do not show signs of thirst even though they are feverish.
Homeopathic phosphorus may be the right treatment for a pet that has blood in abnormal places. For example, it may be used when pets have blood in their vomit and stool, or in their mucus. Sometimes, this may be recommended for pets that have bronchitis, coughs, or hemorrhaging in the postpartum period. It may be helpful for treating serious cuts, or to relieve nausea after surgery.
Silica may be used for skin problems as well as for the treatment of cysts. If a pet has an ulcer that affects the cornea, or an abscess that affects the gum tissue, this homeopathic treatment may be helpful. In some cases, it may be recommended for treating swelling that can develop at a vaccine injection site.
Nux vomica may be utilized as a treatment for adverse effects from medications, as well as unpleasant reactions to overeating. This remedy can treat pets that are vomiting, especially if retching continues after they have finished vomiting. In some cases, nux vomica may be helpful for treating constipation, cramping, or loose, frequent bowel movements.
Typically, these types of homeopathic pet remedies are used only until they show signs of improvement. No added benefit is gained by continuing to use them after improvement is noted. If the pet is severely ill, seriously injured, or does not improve within a reasonable amount of time, veterinary care may be necessary.
Other types of homeopathic and natural remedies can be used ongoing, such as natural shampoos and conditioners. These can keep the pet’s skin and coat healthy with each bath, to soothe the skin, alleviate dryness and itching, and for a shiny coat. They may include vitamin E, aloe vera, oat flour, cedarwood, clary sage, eucalyptus, calamus, and other essential oils. A paw cream made with natural ingredients can be applied to the pet’s paws to soothe and soften them from roughness and cracks. These conditions can develop from road salt, snow, ice, rough terrain, and hot pavements.
Some natural products for pets include both homeopathic and natural ingredients, but it is important to note that some essential oils and other herbs can contraindicate with the use of homeopathics, rendering the homeopathic components useless. Consult with a veterinary healthcare professional before using any natural or homeopathic products with your pet.
Rehabmart is pleased to offer a wide and growing selection of efficacious homeopathic and natural pet remedies from high quality vendors, including Jadience and Directly From Nature.
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO
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