Stress, Anxiety and Fear
Handling stress and anxiety in dogs can be a challenging task, and it's often difficult to "break through" to a dog that is stressed or overwhelmed. To effectively train a dog and create a positive learning environment, it is sometimes necessary to help the dog calm down first.
Stressed dogs have a harder time focusing and learning compared to calm dogs. It's as if stress creates a barrier to effective communication and understanding between humans and dogs. Therefore, it can be advantageous to work on reducing the dog's stress levels before attempting to introduce new training.
Personally, I prefer natural relief methods over medication when it comes to helping stressed dogs. Creating a calming environment using natural remedies such as herbs or other relaxation techniques can be a gentler approach. This may involve the use of calming herbs, or even massage to help the dog relax and regain balance.
By prioritizing the natural route for relieving stress and anxiety, I aim to create a safe and positive experience for the dog without necessarily relying on medical interventions. It is important to consider each dog's individual needs and temperament to create a tailored and compassionate strategy for managing stress and promoting a positive learning environment.
Remember to start by making sure that your dog gets the activation and exercise that it needs to feel good. A safe and stable home situation and good forage.
Fireworks
During New Year's, many dogs feel scared. Prepare your home to take care of the dog, and DO NOT leave it alone! If you have the chance to be in the countryside, where it's calmer, that's preferable. For those who have to stay in the city, it might be enough to close the curtains and play music. But some dogs are so affected that they just lie there shaking. For these dogs, I usually recommend giving them something that is naturally calming and making it cozy in the basement with music, mattresses, and something to read. If you don't have a basement, the bathroom or a closet are other good options to spend the evening in.
Chamomile Flower
The chamomile flower is naturally soothing and can be used both as a tea to pour on the dog food, as a powder to put on the dog food, and in baking if you bake your own dog treats. I recommend making tea at Chamomile. (Must not be given to pregnant or lactating bitches.)
Chamomile is known for its ability to calm nerves and alleviate anxiety, thanks to the soothing compound apigenin. Besides its positive effects on humans, chamomile can also be beneficial for pets in various areas.
Skin irritation
In cases of irritated skin, whether due to bites, allergies, or soap products, chamomile can be used to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching. An infusion of chamomile can be prepared and applied with compresses to relieve skin issues in pets.
Eye irritation
For eye irritation or inflammation in pets, chamomile can be used to alleviate pain. A cotton ball soaked in chamomile infusion can be gently applied around the eye area for relief.
Ticks
The scent of chamomile can also be utilized to repel ticks. By spraying your pet with a warm chamomile infusion during bath time, you can effectively bid farewell to unwanted parasites.
Pain
For muscle pain, chamomile, particularly the compound apigenin, can provide effective relief both externally and orally for pets. A cup of chamomile infusion can be given orally to the pet, while a cotton ball soaked in chamomile tea can be used for external application.
In summary, chamomile can be a versatile and natural solution for various health issues in pets, ranging from calming nerves and alleviating irritation to repelling ticks and relieving muscle pain.
Lemon balm is a herb known for its potential to provide mild calming effects for dogs and may also help alleviate seizures in canines. The herb's impact extends to lowering blood pressure and pulse, exhibiting antibacterial properties, and working as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Traditionally, lemon balm has been employed to aid digestion and ease nervous tension in humans. I have crafted a tincture using lemon balm for my daughter, who grapples with social anxiety. She takes this tincture before heading out to social events, and it has proven to be remarkably beneficial for her.
This versatile herb not only has applications for pets but also offers natural support for individuals dealing with various stress-related concerns. From promoting relaxation in dogs to assisting in managing social anxiety in humans, lemon balm showcases its diverse and calming properties.
For those of you who want a ready-made combined product.
Sedative-Free Stress Relief is provided for dogs dealing with tension due to various factors such as separation, changes in routine or environment, visits to the groomer or vet, thunder, fireworks, kennel stays, and more. This product supports overall well-being by helping to calm and reduce stress-related behaviors in dogs and puppies, including excessive barking, shaking, licking, panting, and cowering.
Trusted by dog lovers worldwide, this solution is made with the original RESCUE REMEDY tincture, which is Dr. Bach's blend of five natural flower essences. These essences are hand-picked from his original gardens in the UK, ensuring a reliable and effective formula.
The pet-safe formula is doctor-developed, plant-based, and homeopathic, containing active ingredients that are vegan and vegetarian-friendly. It is free of artificial flavors and colors, as well as gluten, and is non-alcoholic.
Designed for dogs of all ages, breeds, and weights, the product can be administered by giving four drops orally or mixed with food/water. It can be used in conjunction with other dog health and wellness products, including stress medications, supplements, and calming shirts, vests, or collars.
