Bach Rescue Remedy...advice on useage?

[Mary, Scrappy, Sully and Olive]

I know you can use the human formula of Rescue Remedy on dogs, but wanted to ask about dosage, etc.  If you have used this in the past for your dogs, could you please advise me?  I was only able to find the "human" formula locally and wanted to try it tonight, as Grover is terrified of the fireworks (as well as thunder...and yes, I purchased the Thundershirt today also)  Last night was his worst night ever so we were relieved to find a pet store open today.

I have the spray, so don't know whether to spray directly in his mouth or rub on his gums....I've even read of people putting it on the dogs ears? 

Also, is there a big difference in the "pet" formula, as opposed to the "human"....or any benefits?

Thanks for any help:)

[F, Calla & Luca]

Sorry, but I think these remedies are one way to spend money on water, in this case apparently with some alcohol as well.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bach_flower_remedies

[Anne & Mr. Haley]

I use Canine Calm spray for Haley when we have thunderstorms.  It seems to help some unless there is a huge crack of thunder directly overhead or the lights flicker during a storm.  I spray it on my hands and wipe them on his face and beard; spray hands again and wipe on his ears; spray hands one more time and wipe on his chest.  He will usually just lay down.  When the thunder is in the distance and he starts showing stress I tell him it's time for "herbs" and he come to me.

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Here is some info on using the Bach Rescue Remedy:

Bach Flower Remedies for Animals:

Dealing With Emergencies and Trauma
Rescue Remedy, probably the most widely known of the Bach Flower Remedies, is hands-down the most appropriate remedy for emergencies and traumatic circumstances. Rescue Remedy is comprised of five Bach essences, which as a blend, provide for stabilization and prevention of shock; calming of panic, fear and loss of self-control; grounding and consciousness; and dealing with agitation and irritability.

In an emergency, Rescue Remedy should be given in small doses (4 drops) every 15 minutes until the emergency has passed and the animal is stabilized, or while in the process of obtaining veterinary medical help if needed.

 This info is for the human formula but the dosing is the same as the Pet Formula. I would start with the emergency dose of 4 drops every 15 minutes.  If it is stressing her when you give her the drops try putting in on her skin instead as this also works. It is based on weight- 2 drops for a small animal and up to 10 for a horse. Good luck! I hope your plan is successful!

[Moe]

I've used the Bach Rescue Pastilles. I don't think they do anything. I've never felt any different. I do like the taste of them and they last a long time. I use them as an alternative to mints or gum. I'm curious to see if it makes a difference in your dog.

[F, Calla & Luca]

It defies the intellect that the Bach Rescue Remedies work any better than a placebo.

[Moe]

Not sure the placebo effect will apply to dogs. :) :) :)

[Moe]

Maybe it could work by proxy. lol

[F, Calla & Luca]

True, if your owner feels calmer maybe the dog does too.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I agree.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

LOL, that was what I thought when I read it, Moe.

[F, Calla & Luca]

There is a group for naturally living doodles. I think you might fare better there than on the main page. I sometimes feel compelled to comment because coming from a scientific, conventional medical point of view it upsets me to see people spending money and hope on remedies that are either unstudied or which have been shown to be ineffective at best.  This also prolongs suffering on the part of people and animals. Sometimes these  concoctions are dangerous as in the case of kava kava.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Read all about it. A few years ago it became popular as a antianxiety/sleep remedy. But then some people had liver failure.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kava