Natural Remedies - I would like to share something written by Joanne-Spud* in another group

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

Q: I’d prefer to stick to  natural remedies…

A: Let’s settle this once and for all: natural does not mean safe. I  see a lot of dogs who are on multiple herbs, oils, and other “natural” remedies  with no concern for their safety ramifications. We have very little knowledge about toxicity,  possible drug interactions (either additive or counteractive), side  effects, or species-appropriateness for most of these remedies, and frankly,  there is very little oversight regarding their safety for us, much less  for non-human animals. Most modern medications have roots in herbal or  other natural remedies. While the digitalis from a foxglove plant may be very  helpful when used therapeutically for a patient with congestive heart failure,  it can be deadly to a small child or dog. Arsenic and cyanide are “natural”  compounds as well – that doesn’t make them safe. While melatonin, 5-HTP, or  valerian root may help some dogs, the truth is that we don’t know that they’re  any safer than a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor or Tri-Cyclic  Antidepressant, and any compound can cause issues.

 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I couldn't agree more. 

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Oh geesh, I don't think I wrote this but may have cut and pasted it without giving credit (opps- but I do usually give credit)  No way does this look like my writing. Maybe you took some of the other discussion and not all. Regardless, it is about not treating your dog with the medication they need.. just because.  Well, damnit, help your dogs.  Dont block the symptoms with some remedy

BUT I AGREE!

It must have been written in response maybe  about pheromone products or Fabreeze ( that stuff makes me so sick) or any air fresheners, Citronella collars, etc

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Here is the article.  It was about anxiety treatments for dogs.  Great article!  I knew I recognized the information but didnt think I wrote this.  I do hope you read the rest ... of the story

http://paws4udogs.wordpress.com/2013/07/29/myth-anxiety-medication-...

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

Thank you for the correct attribution. 

[LucyR]

I agree in full with Andy and Sharon's post.  To rely on natural remedies to the exclusion of anything else is fool-hardy....same as in humans.  Remember Steve Jobs and the natural cure for pancreatic cancer...That didn't turn out too well, did it?  The other issue is that active principles in natural remedies are totally unknown.  Some natural remedies are just crude sources of remedies that are known to be effective, only without the content guidelines.  So one batch may give you  either 3 times as much or possibly 1/3 as much of whatever appears to be working.