Is It Safe for Dogs To Ingest Essential Oils
Essential Oils for Dogs: The Ingestion Debate
Hey Pet Parents,
Today, let's dive into a topic that often sparks a lot of debates in the pet care world—essential oils for dogs, specifically those that can be ingested. As a Holistic Pet Health Coach, my mission is to guide you through the maze of information out there, using my extensive background in behavior, nutrition, aromatherapy, and energy work to ensure the best for your furry friends.
The Debate: Ingesting Essential Oils
Yes, essential oils can be safe for ingestion, even by your dog, in a temporary, controlled, purposeful way. They can offer many benefits, including:
Digestion Support: Essential oils can aid in digestive health.
Detoxification: They can help detoxify digestive organs.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Essential oils can help fight inflammation.
I use essential oils with my own dogs often, as do many others I know. However, it's crucial to ensure you have the proper knowledge for the correct and safe usage of essential oils. It is also important to understand your dog’s age, condition, size, etc. Anyone giving you direction on the internet without knowing your dog is taking a risk.
Expert Opinions and Research
In the realm of essential oil research, distinguished experts advocate for internal usage of essential oils. Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, known for his work "Medical Aromatherapy: Healing with Essential Oils," and Robert Tisserand, the author of "Essential Oil Safety," are just a couple of notable names in this domain. Their extensive expertise positions them at the forefront of essential oil knowledge.
In fact, "French Aromatherapy" often emphasizes the internal use of essential oils, backed by years of tradition and practice. Notably, there exists a certification in French aromatherapy dedicated to educating individuals on proper dosing, ingestion methods, and remedy preparation.
Presently, reputable essential oil brands go to great lengths to gain FDA approval for a comprehensive line of products specifically labeled for internal consumption. It's important to note that the contents of bottles labeled for ingestion versus those labeled for topical or aromatic use are identical; the distinction lies in the labeling for FDA compliance. It's advisable to research and verify the ingestible counterparts of labeled oils.
The term "GRAS" or "Generally Recognized as Safe" appears frequently in aromatherapy documentation, affirming the safety of essential oils. With many oils falling under this category, it reinforces the affirmative stance on the internal use of essential oils with proper precautions.
Common GRAS Essential Oils:
Peppermint Oil: Supports digestion, relieves occasional stomach upset, and promotes respiratory health. Often used in doggie toothpaste or spray.
Lemon Oil: Detoxifies the body, supports immune function, and provides a refreshing flavor to food and beverages.
Ginger Oil: Alleviates nausea, supports digestive health, and reduces inflammation.
Frankincense Oil: Supports cellular health, promotes a healthy immune response, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Oregano Oil: Acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports the immune system, and has antimicrobial properties.
Thyme Oil: Supports immune function, promotes respiratory health, and has antioxidant properties.
Orange Oil: Supports digestive health and cellular health.
Basil Oil: Supports digestive health, promotes mental alertness, and reduces occasional muscle tension.
Why Dogs Naturally Ingest Essential Oils
Dogs are remarkably intuitive when it comes to their health. If you’ve ever noticed your dog licking a specific plant or essential oil, they might be self-medicating. In my practice, I've observed this behavior countless times. Dogs often choose to ingest oils when they feel an internal imbalance. Here’s why:
Instinctual Healing: Just like how dogs eat grass to induce vomiting when they have an upset stomach, they may lick essential oils to address other health issues.
Scent Preferences: Dogs have an incredibly powerful sense of smell. They are naturally drawn to certain scents that they instinctively know will help them.
Quality of the Oil
The quality of essential oils cannot be overstated. Here's what to look for:
High-quality, unadulterated essential oils. These are distilled with care, ensuring the highest level of purity and potency.
Reputable Brands: Choose brands that provide detailed information about their sourcing and distillation processes.
Does your brand teach you how to use them an offer support to you? I offer all my clients support when they need it most on using essential oils and education throughout the year!
How to Safely Use Essential Oils
If you decide to use essential oils for your dog, here are some guidelines to follow:
Consult a Professional: Always consult with a holistic pet health coach or a veterinarian experienced in essential oils before starting any new regimen. By the way — that’s me! And when you shop for your essential oils through my affiliate program, your support is at no cost to you!
Start Small: Begin with a minimal amount to see how your dog reacts. Every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another.
Dilution is Key: Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil or mix them into fatty foods. This helps in safe digestion and absorption.
Observe and Adjust: Monitor your dog closely for any adverse reactions and adjust the usage as needed.
Practical Tips for Ingesting Essential Oils
Get a Reference Book: Equip yourself with a reliable reference guide on essential oils. Consider these books.
Join an Educational Group: Join an active animal-oriented educational group. Join my FB Group! I have a private members-only forum for even more educational content.
Use Specific Oils for Their Intended Purpose: Ensure you use oils appropriate for the intended purpose, considering their safety for ingestion.
Start Low and Slow: Begin with a low dosage and gradually increase to gauge your tolerance and effects.
Dilute Your Oils: Always dilute essential oils appropriately to mitigate any potential adverse reactions.
Choose Healthy Fats as Carriers for Your Dog's Food: If incorporating oils into your dog's food, opt for healthy fats as carriers.
Coat Gel Caps with Carrier Oil: When using gel caps, coat them with a carrier oil like coconut oil or butter for easier ingestion.
Exercise Caution with "Hot" Oils: Especially for oils with higher potency, consider using gel caps with a carrier oil.
Consult a Professional: (that’s me!) Seek guidance and advice from a qualified professional, practitioner, or experienced educator to initiate safe usage.
What If the Dog Licks Essential Oil Off My Hands?
They will when they want to — and let them! While storing essential oils securely is crucial to avoid any potential mishaps, a gentle reminder is essential: allowing dogs to lick diluted essential oils off your hands in minimal quantities can be safe. Dogs possess an innate ability to sense what they need, often gravitating towards scents that provide comfort or relief. This instinctive behavior can offer subtle insights into their preferences, aiding in their overall well-being. However, always exercise moderation and seek professional guidance to ensure their safety and well-being.
Even if your dog begins to lick an area where you have applied oils topicaly, it’s ok.
Keeping Essential Oils Stored Out of Reach
Don’t be surprised if they sniff out your oils or even try to run away with a bottle. It's imperative to prioritize the safety of your beloved canine companions. Keep essential oils, diffusers, and any related products out of their reach to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure. Should a diffuser spill occur, ensure your dog doesn't ingest the water, as it may contain concentrated essential oils.
My Expertise in Essential Oils
As a certified aromatherapist and herbalist, I've seen the remarkable benefits of essential oils in my practice. Whether it's calming an anxious pup or aiding in digestion, these oils can be powerful allies when used correctly. My background in nutrition and behavior also ensures that I consider the holistic picture of your pet's health.
Building a Relationship with You and Your Pet
My goal is to build a long-term relationship with you and your furry companions. I’m here to offer guidance, answer your questions, and provide the support you need. Whether it’s through blog posts, one-on-one consultations, or tailored health plans, I’m committed to helping your pets live their happiest, healthiest lives.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about how essential oils can benefit your dog, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can create a personalized approach to your pet's wellness.