I certainly believe in nutrition as a first line of defense against disease. However, even the best diet sometimes cannot keep a disease from occurring. Especially as dogs age, problems can be quick to arise. Some of these are an easy fix, others more complex. Hopefully you are feeding your dog a healthy diet. (which in my opinion would be a combination raw/home-cooked diet) That said, assistance from other sources may be needed. Joint issues are common in all breeds of dogs, especially after seven years of age in smaller breeds, and as young as five years in bigger dogs. If you have a younger dog or a puppy, start joint supplements as early as four years of age. Walking is always a good exercise for dogs, and pet parents too, as weight bearing exercise aids bone strength.
Herbs offer great benefit in pain relief when problems occur. Typically there are no side effects. Dose according to body weight (tinctures 12 drops per 20#'s) and you need not worry about overdosing. Herbs are a safe and fairly easy to use. I would always recommend organic grown herbs, as pesticides and other synthetic substances can further antagonize internal imbalance. You can purchase dried herbs, which can be mixed with food. There are also creams and ointments for those times when massaging into the skin externally is needed. If you are an ambitious individual, you can make your own!
Springtime, Inc. (www.springtimeinc.com) has a quality joint supplement that I have used for years. It is a chewable wafer, so it's like giving your dog a treat...I crush it and mix it in with their raw meat. Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM are all ingredients to look for on the label. Be certain of the quality of the product and the reputation of the supplier. I have used Springtime's products for many years...all with positive results. Only Natural Pet (www.onlynaturalpet.com) carries numerous quality supplements...I trust their products as well.
Another consideration is a quality Omega 3-6-9 supplement. This is useful for canine allergies, as it is essential for keeping the skin moisturized, but it is also a great lubrication for joints, keeping them healthy. I pierce the soft gel and squeeze the contents into my dog's food. The sooner you start putting these things into practice, the better. There are no 100% guarantees, but this is definitely smart insurance...treating diseases can be expensive...it really does cost less down the road when you practice prevention!
So, what herbs are canine safe that can be used to aid in pain relief? Yucca and cayenne are both good for inflammation...cayenne helps block pain and boost circulation...an ointment or cream would be best. Licorice can be used as an infusion and placed on the affected area. Remember, herbs take time to work....consistency is a must, even when you think you are not seeing results. Allow at least 3 weeks to 3 months of consistent use to see the benefit. Believe me, it is worth the wait, and it is absolutely better than using synthetic drugs...especially when it is not a life/death situation.
Herbs are medicine, so respect that. Never use a herb for your dog if you are not certain it is safe for canine use. Not all herbs are, and what works for one might not for another. One of the safest ways to utilize herbs is as a tea....yes, a tea....prepare in the same way you would for yourself, however, allow it to cool and then strain (if needed), and pour in your dogs water dish. I hope you will consider using what nature has provided for every use that we would ever need, as these plants are compatible with the internal organs....they have ability to heal....synthetic drugs cannot hold a candle to herbs! Natural is always best.
