Natural Pet Health Blog

Echinacea is among the best known supplements and has been touted in people for helping in the recovery from a variety of illnesses, especially the cold and the flu. Echinacea is usually prescribed as an immune-boosting supplement for pets. I use it for a number of disorders, especially bacterial, fungal, and Viral Infections, and chronic diseases of any organ. It’s also one of my favorite supplements for pets with demodectic mange.

Echinacea is generally considered safe when used under supervision. In the older literature, there is a warning not to use this herb for certain immune disorders (autoimmune diseases, Diabetes) and disorders with diminished immune systems with low white blood cell counts (Feline Leukemia and immunodeficiency diseases.) However, Echinacea has been used in these instances without obvious harm. Generally, Echinacea is not meant for long term use and most doctors limit its use to a few months at a time.

Garlic is a favorite herb used by many pet owners to control fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects. While many of my clients swear by the ability of Garlic to control fleas, and while I have no problem recommending its use, controlled studies have shown Garlic to be ineffective as an insecticide. Garlic also has show antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties. Garlic can cause anemia in dogs and cats due to the presence of S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide and N-propyldisulfhide. Therefore, it should not be used in pets with anemia. As a general guideline, 1 Clove of Garlic per 10 pounds of body weight for dogs (and 1/2 Clove per cat) can usually be fed safely each day. If you use Garlic regularly (as a general food supplement,) it would be wise to have your pet’s blood checked every few months to make sure anemia is not occurring.

Ginkgo is a well-known and popular herb that has a number of uses. It is best known as a supplement that may improve cognitive disorder in Aging people and pets, particularly in those with mild dementia (Alzheimer’s in particular.) While its ability to prevent blood clots can be beneficial in certain cases, a well-known side effect of ginkgo is increased and potentially serious bleeding problems. In people, bleeding (including fatal brain hemorrhages) have been reported when ginkgo was combined with high doses of fish oil or other anticoagulants.

About the author

Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Author, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, The Allergy Solution for Dogs, and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Dr. Shawn is the medical consultant for Pet Togethers, a pet supplement company.

http://www.pettogethers.net/healthypet

—–

Pamper Your Dog: 130 Treats for Your Canine Friend - Free Ebook > http://www.remedies...-dog-130-recipes.pdf

Pamper Your Cat: 100 Treats for Your Feline Friend - Free Ebook > http://www.remedies...-cat-100-recipes.pdf

For Guaranteed, Effective, 100% Natural Herbal Remedies for Pets, please visit PetAlive!

Does your pet need a new Collar or Leash? How about a beautiful winter coat or a fashionable outfit? Perfectly Pampered Pets is Pet’s #1 Choice in Fashion and Great Gifts for Your Pampered Pet!

An I.D. Tag can save your pet’s life or bring him home again. Visit Tags For Pets now!

Last 5 posts in General Pet Articles

• Taking a Bite Out of Food Borne Illness - May 15th, 2008
• Tips for Preventing Dog & Cat Bites in Children - May 14th, 2008
• When Their Bark Isn’t Worse Than Their Bite - May 13th, 2008
• Natural Flea and Tick Control - May 10th, 2008
• What causes liver disease in dogs - May 7th, 2008

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!