herbs for pets

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Leaky Gut Syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome (intestinal permeability) can affect animals in a similar manner as it does people.  When the intestinal lining develops spaces between cells, food, toxins and bacteria are able to get through the intestines and into the bloodstream.  This can then result in digestive issues, bacterial overgrowth, and inflammation.  Since the body is not fully absorbing all the nutrients being supplied, the immune system is weakened and a vicious cycle within the body takes place.  This is often the root cause of many diseases such as itchy skin, ear infections, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

Causes of leaky gut syndrome are many and include a diet of highly processed and grain based foods, vaccinations, steroids, chlorine, chemical dewormers, chemical flea & tick treatments, antibiotics, and stress.

This can be a challenge but, the good news is with time, the gut can be repaired.  First you must stop causing further damage so replace the processed, grain based foods with a fresh, preferably raw food diet that does not include any grains at all.  Remove all sugars and dairy from the diet.  Reduce vaccinations and stop or at least limit the use of chemicals and pesticides.

Once you have stopped causing damage, these foods should be added into the diet to help repair the gut and replenish the good bacteria;  kefir (goat’s milk or coconut), fermented foods, bone broth, and coconut oil.  Also add a good probiotic and digestive enzymes to the animal’s food prior to feeding.  Healing herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow, and turmeric can also be added to help reduce discomfort and help heal the body.

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Herbs Can Work Wonders for Chronic Disease

Chronic diseases (those that continue past several months or those that cannot be cured by the traditional medical system) can affect animals just as they can affect humans.  In traditional medicine, medications and/or surgery are often recommended to help manage the disease symptoms.  Generally this approach requires long term use of pharmaceutical drugs and often times the drugs have side effects that are equally as bad, and sometimes worse, than the original symptoms.  This form of treatment addresses the symptoms, but not necessarily the cause of the problem and is temporary at best.  When it comes to surgery, it’s my opinion that once you cut the body open, it’s never quite the same.  So unless it’s required, such as in the case of a life or death emergency, the pros and cons as well as alternatives should be carefully considered before moving forward.  Just remember once you go forward with surgery, you can never go back.

Holistic healthcare focuses on diet, nutrition, and supplements to build a strong immune system and a healthy body, with the goal of minimizing disease.  With a solid foundation and the help of herbal remedies as needed, the body can heal itself in amazing ways if disease does occur.  When the root cause of the problem is correctly identified and addressed properly, true healing from within can take place.

Over the years, I have experienced how herbs can reduce and often eliminate the symptoms of chronic disease where man-made medications have failed and how they help the body to heal itself, all while others said it was not possible.  You can do your own research and you will find incredible stories of those who have cured debilitating diseases, cancer, and other life threatening conditions by nourishing the body and using natural treatments appropriately.

I think it’s important for us all to remember, our animals depend on us to provide for them.  If you think something isn’t quite right, it probably isn’t.  If your dog or cat is behaving out of character or shows signs of discomfort (restlessness, hiding, panting, not eating, growling, going to the bathroom in the house or outside the litterbox,….) something is probably not right.  Even if your veterinarian cannot find anything specific or if the tests don’t indicate a particular problem, you should be persistent and follow your instincts until you can pinpoint the issue.

If you are giving your pet medication and you are not seeing improvements, you need to challenge why it’s a good idea to continue.  If you are told surgery is the only option, but you are not sure it makes sense, challenge this thought process.  If all else fails and the veterinarian cannot offer you anything but medications and/or surgery and you are not comfortable with those ideas, seek help from a “true” holistic veterinarian or a pet nutritionist.  There are always natural alternatives, and if we are persistent enough, we will find a successful solution.  Herbal treatments are often disregarded by the mainstream as “unproven” or “unsafe”, but those of us who use them on a daily basis know that when used correctly the results are nothing short of amazing.

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Herbs and supplements for pets

From time to time I will briefly discuss some herbs and supplements that I believe are helpful for pets.  Below are a couple which have many benefits (too many to list).  This is not meant to be all inclusive, its just a brief summary of a couple uses and benefits for you to consider looking into further if you are interested.

I am always available for consultation as needed.  You may call me or e-mail me at the contact information provided on my Website.

ANITOXIDANTS

Antioxidants are commonly used as an anti-inflammatory and to treat arthritis, allergies, asthma, and cancer.  They work by eliminating or reducing chemical oxidation that occurs within the cells.  The most common antioxidants used for pets are vitamins A, C, and E and minerals such as selenium, manganese, and zinc.

ASTRAGALUS

Astragalus is used to strengthen the immune system and acts as an anti-inflammatory.  In pets it’s commonly used to treat infections, chronic illnesses including cancer, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism in cats.

Astragalus membranaceous is safe, however many other species can be toxic.  It is an immune stimulant so it’s best when used early in the course of disease to stimulate the immune system.  It should not be used to treat hyper-immune disorders or disorders with diminished immune systems with low white blood cell counts.

BILBERRY

Bilberry is most often used to treat disorders of the eyes, including macular degeneration and cataract formation.  The flavonoid complexes in bilberry have several effects including collagen stabilization, which my help pets with arthritis.  Other possible benefits include; improved capillary strength, increased platelet clumping, lowering of blood sugar, and protective effects against gastric ulcers.

In humans, rare side effects such as mild digestive distress, skin rashes, and drowsiness have occurred.

BURDOCK ROOT

Burdock root is commonly used to treat allergies, diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, and liver disease.  Its diuretic action removes toxins and wastes from the body and can be helpful for pets who eat a poor, processed food diet.  It also contains chemicals that remove environmental toxins from the body by removing harmful, free radicals.

Precautions should be taken when giving this to the young, nursing, or those with severe liver or kidney disease.

Note, it may increase the effectiveness of insulin in pets.

CARNITINE

Carnitine is an amino acid that the body uses to turn fat into energy.  It’s required for transporting long-chain fatty acids into the cells, which is essential to the conversion of fatty acids into energy, especially the heart muscles.

Dietary sources are meat and dairy products, but to obtain therapeutic dosages a supplement is necessary.

Pets taking anti-seizure medications (particularly phenytoin or phenobarbital) may require extra carnitine, especially those with heart disease.

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Holistic and herbal treatments for pets

The main difference between holistic treatments for animals and Western medicine is how diseases and/or symptoms are viewed.

Veterinarians who follow Western medicine solely, tend to look at a disease in isolation, and a “cure” is geared towards the removal or suppression of its symptoms as quickly as possible.  In other words, a “quick-fix” is usually the approach.  Very often antibiotics are given and these tend to be overprescribed.  Some veterinarians prescribe them to treat not only bacterial infections, but also for viral infections, digestive issues, skin irritations, and a variety of other illnesses as well.  The problem with this approach is unless the antibiotic prescribed is actually known to be affective against the illness, the problem is not likely to be resolved and if it is, it’s probably coincidental.  More than likely the symptoms may subside for a while but they generally return, and often much worse than before treatment.  Frequent use of antibiotics can greatly weaken our pet’s immune system, which will lead to more health problems in the future.

Holistic practitioners look at the animal as a whole which includes body, mind and “life spirit” in order to determine the underlying cause of disease.  Treatments are aimed at strengthening the diseased organ system, regulating and boosting the immune system, and returning the body functions to a state of normalcy for long lasting health.

Many illnesses, including cancer, are a result of a breakdown in the immune system.  Herbs are often a good choice because they contain numerous chemical constituents which can have medicinal effects when used properly.  The medicinal properties of specific herbs can regulate and normalize specific activities of the organ systems.  Often times when herbs are used in combination, they have synergistic effects and can offer long term benefits.

Precautions when using herbs:

  • Herbs usually act much slower than Western medicine and can take at least 60-90 days before any significant improvements are seen.
  • While herbs can be better and gentler than conventional medicines, it is not advisable to use herbs in the place of veterinary consultation, particularly in the event of a serious or life-threatening condition.
  • Herbs are best used to support and improve the general physical wellbeing of our pets.  They are best used for treating chronic diseases and are not the preferred means of treatment in emergency situations.
  • It is important that we obtain the best quality herbs from reputable and trustworthy sources.
  • While there are lots of safe herbs for use in our pets, there are also some that are not safe for dogs and cats so it’s best to work with a knowledgeable and experienced holistic practitioner.
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The herb Alfalfa for dogs and cats

Alfalfa contains a broad spectrum of nutrients, including a high percentage of protein, trace minerals, dietary fiber, and vitamins A, B1, B12, C, D, E, and K.  It is also very high in chlorophyll, which serves as an antioxidant in the bloodstream.  It can be used as a supplement in small quantities for animals who are already eating a species appropriate diet.

Arthritis – Alfalfa is a nutritive, it has anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.  It is good for arthritis support because it provides pain relief to the musculoskeletal system.

Cancer prevention – It is believed that alfalfa induces cellular activities and inactivates chemical carcinogens in the liver and small intestine before they can cause damage, thereby reducing the risk of cancerous growths.

Alfalfa should be harvested prior to coming into bloom (early summer).  The plant should be cut during dry weather and be allowed to dry in a moisture free place, out of sunlight.  Alfalfa can quickly grow out of control and take over a garden bed so it must kept under control.  Once it goes to seed it will spread very quickly.

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Herbs for pets

Below are just a few, of the many readily available herbs, that offer antibacterial and antiviral properties.  When following a proper dosage schedule, these can safely be given to pets.

As always, its best to consult with an experienced herbalist as well as discuss with your veterinarian prior to giving herbs to dogs and cats.

Antibacterial Herbs:

Calendula – can be used in first-aid to heal wounds and prevent infection.

Cinnamon – used to aid digestion and for its antibacterial properties.

Echinacea – when taken at the onset of infection, this herb can help speed the healing process.

Antiviral Herbs:

Astragalus – works by helping to boost the immune system.

Ginger – has both antiviral and antibacterial properties.  It also helps in digestion.

Licorice – both antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Oregano – both antiviral and antibacterial properties.