By Kim Shotola, The Lightfoot Way

Aromatherapy is commonly used by many people. Essential oils are extracted from the flowers, leaves, bark, roots, stems, seeds or fruit of a plant. The oils are then either inhaled or diluted and rubbed into the skin. Veterinary remedies date back to the 18th century. In addition to holistic vets, this method is utilized by holistic animal practitioners, animal massage therapists, and pet owners.

Essential oils can help prevent and treat illness in dogs due to their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Aromatherapy can help with emotional issues such as anxiety, nervousness, stress, and those that are hormone related. The oils can help with physical issues such as skin problems, joint conditions, digestive problems, respiratory conditions, circulatory problems, and parasites. Some commonly used essential oils are:

• Lavender has a calming effect and can
help with joint conditions, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.

• Rose has a strengthening emotional effect and can help with inflammation and skin conditions.

• Myrrh has a relaxing quality and can help with congestion, lethargy, inflammation, and skin conditions.
• Lemon grass can help with ligament and joint injuries and is used as an insect and flea repellant.

• Valor is a special blend that provides emotional and spiritual balance and helps with musculoskeletal issues.

Aromatherapy can be offered several different ways:

• Opening the bottle and allowing your
dog to smell the oil.
• Placing several drops of oils in a small
spray bottle filled with water and misting.
• Using a diffuser.
• Appling directly to your dog’s body by
diluting with a carrier such as almond oil.

Muscle testing is an ideal way to determine which oils are right for your dog. Precautions should be taken to make sure that you are using therapeutic grade oils. Some oils should not be used on your dog if they are going to be in the sun.

Aromatherapy is a wonderful compliment to your dog’s health care and can provide many benefits.

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