Herbs for Pets

Domestic pets need supplements because they are not part of the wild food chain in nature, which would supply them everything they need. Many domestic animals now suffer the same diseases that are suffered by humans, and pets can benefit from herbal supplements to help prevent these problems.

Usually when a pet has an upset stomach, it will try to find some grass to chew on. When your carnivorous pet chews on grass, it is because he is craving the chlorophyll from the green blades. Chlorophyll is rich in nutrients and minerals. You can put some liquid chlorophyll in your pet’s water dish in the winter, when there might not be any grass available to munch on.

I tried an experiment with my own two dogs and chlorophyll: One had definite digestive troubles, and the other was lacking minerals, as recognized by his creaking joints. I set out three bowls of water, one with chlorophyll added, one with aloe vera added, and one just plain. After smelling each one, the dog that had arthritis drank up
the chlorophyll. The one with digestive troubles chose the aloe vera. From then on, I
added these to their water, with good results, including taking away my dogs’ dog breath. The one with stiff joints seemed more limber, and the other was less gaseous—both made my home life much more pleasant.

Of course, liquid herbs are the easiest to administer to pets. You can also coat tablets or capsules in butter or some other food to get your dog to eat them. Most of the time they won’t even know you have slipped them an herb! Cats are pickier eaters, so it may be wise to forget your carefully hidden pill placement and administer their herbs via a liquid or tincture.

The next table lists some common pet problems and some simple remedies you can use to help. Who knows, by feeding your dog herbs, you just might be able to teach an old dog new tricks!