Herbal Treatment for Dog That Should Be Avoided

Herbal treatment for dog bridges the gap between nutrition and physical well-being. Full of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates and fat, herbs play an important role in the dog's diet.

However, there are herbal treatments for dog that should be avoided or at least used with caution.

1) Black Walnut - This herbal treatment for dog should only be used under the direction of an experienced veterinary herbalist. Common side effects are: vomiting, diarrhea and potential serious digestive upsets. Consumption of the walnut hull has caused death in some dogs who have consumed black walnuts in their environment.

2) Comfrey - This herbal treatment for dog should again be used under the direct supervision of a veterinary herbalist. Even at proper doses, alkaloids present in comfrey may cause liver failure in small dogs if used for weeks or months, or if an undetected liver problem exists.

3) Ephedra - This herbal remedy should never be used alone and only use under a direct supervision of an experienced veterinary herbalist. It is known to adversely effect unrecognized heart or respiratory disease and may elevate blood pressure.

4) Garlic - Garlic should not be given to anemic dogs, or to puppies less than 8 weeks of age.

5) Gingko - Avoid use before any surgical procedure and avoid use with drugs that can effect blood clotting (aspirin). It can cause excessive bleeding during surgery.

6) Pennyroyal - The oil is very strong and can cause death. Use the whole herb topically only and with great caution. Pregnant or nursing dogs and puppies should not be exposed even to topical applications or herbal collars.

7) Red Clover - Do not use this herbal treatment for dogs with clotting problems, when there is active bleeding, or if surgery is anticipated. It contains coumarin - an anticlot, or blood-thinning compound.

8) St. John's Wort - May cause sun-induced skin rash when given to dogs with very light coats and fair skin.

9) Tea Tree Oil - this herbal medicine for dog should avoided on small animals. Use only topically and in diluted form on medium and larger dogs.