Bach Flower Remedies for dogs, cats and other pets“0 Comments”
admin | 10:00 am | March 29, 2008 | Bach Flower, Flower Essences
The Bach Flower Remedies are based on the research and findings of an English doctor, Dr Edward Bach. Dr Bach was a medical pioneer in the early 1900s, who became aware of the link between stress, emotions and illness. He was also a specialist in the study of bacteria, and in particular the role of bacteria and chronic disease. Dr Bach sought to find a simple, safe way to restore harmony in the diseased body through emotional wellness. In his search, he discovered properties of flowers, trees and bushes that provided him with the remedies he was looking for.
Since his discovery many more flower essences have been discovered around the world, including
So how do they work? Essences are thought to work through the body’s energy system and may work in a similar way to homeopathy and acupuncture. Dr Bach proposed that the remedies work by the transfer of ‘life force energy’ from the plant to the patient’s ‘vital force’. They are usually considered a form of ‘energy’ medicine acting on the emotional and spiritual levels of the body. Use of the essences alters the emotional or mental state in a subtle way. They can also help healing due to the connection between emotional and physical well-being.
This connection is based on Dr Bach’s idea that negative emotional states can suppress the healing process. This is interesting because in the last decade there has been a great deal of interest in ‘psychoneuroimmunology’ or the study of the connection of the mind and its influence on disease. Connections between the immune, nervous system and endocrine (hormonal) system seem to support this concept.
So do pets have emotional states that can influence their health? Well you can probably answer that yourself. We know many pets have behavioural problems and we can even describe the personalities of our pets. Many pets suffer from stress either because of their temperament, because they haven’t been socialised appropriately as puppies, or because their environment is stressful, especially when their owners are stressed too. We know that stress can reduce our immunity, so it is not unreasonable to accept that stress and emotional stress can influence the health of our pets.
Even though Dr Bach developed his flower essences for people, they have been used in pets for over fifty years. There are currently no scientific studies to support their use, but many owners observe positive changes in their pets with use of these non-toxic, gentle remedies. Each Bach Flower Remedy helps deal with specific states of mind. These states include fear, terror, mental torture or worry, indecision, indifference or boredom, doubt or discouragement, over-concern, weakness, self-distrust, impatience, over-enthusiasm and pride or aloofness.
The difficulty with using Bach Flower Essences or other flower essences in pets is that we can’t ask how the pet is feeling. We have to rely on our judgment and observations and sometimes intuition to find the appropriate remedies.
Bach Flower Essences from the Natural Vet Company
Agrimony“0 Comments”
admin | 10:18 am | | Flower Essences
An agrimony pet appears to be brave, but is in fact highly sensitive and deeply affected by what is going on around him. This is especially so if there is conflict or hostility between his humans. He will try to intervene, wagging his tail or brushing up against you but really unsure of himself. He may be restless, and prefers company rather than being alone. He may be the type of pet that doesn’t show pain, even though he is injured. He may be susceptible to developing vomiting or diarrhoea if upset, or urinary incontinence if older. He may also be prone to skin problems, parasites, arthritis or heart disease. This remedy is also useful during recuperation following surgery or wound healing.
Agrimony from the Natural Vet Company
Preparing Bach Flower Essences for Pets“0 Comments”
admin | 10:28 am | | Bach Flower, Flower Essences
Guidelines
One of the exciting aspects of Bach Flowers is that they are readily available and safe to use. The remedies are purchased as a stock bottle, which contains the concentrated essence.
Essences are generally diluted before use although they can be given straight from the bottle in emergencies.Stock strength essences contain about 2/3 brandy, which most pets hate. So usually 2-6 drops of the stock is diluted in spring water, with about 1/4 brandy as a natural preservative. If the remedy is to be used in one week, it does not need added brandy.
Preparation
Buy a properly mixed combination from the Natural Vet Company
The remedies are selected and prepared either singularly or in combination (up to six remedies can be mixed together).
2–6 drops are taken directly from each stock bottle.
When preparing and giving the remedies it is important not to touch the tip of the dropper to avoid contamination.
Protect the remedies from computers, microwaves and electrical power points. The remedies are ‘energy’ or ‘vibrational’ medicines and may be affected by other forms of energy.
To prepare a Bach Flower Remedy place 2–6 drops of each selected essence (or 4 drops of Rescue Remedy) into a 1-oz or 25-ml bottle. Fill the bottle 3/4 of the way with spring water and then add brandy, vodka or organic vinegar to fill (so that water to alcohol is 3 parts to 1 part). This dilution bottle should be thumped against the palm of one hand to thoroughly mix the remedies.
The dilution bottle should be shaken before each dose.
The remedy is then given by mouth or applied to the ears or head area. It can also be diluted into a spray bottle and sprayed into a room.
While the remedies are safe and non-toxic, if symptoms worsen, stop using the remedy. Some animals may be affected by the alcohol or preservative. When your pet has settled, you can repeat the dosage by applying the remedy to the top of the head or between the shoulders rather than by mouth.
Dosage depends on the pet’s individual response. Try 3–4 drops every 10 to 15 minutes in emergency situations and 3–4drops one to four times daily depending on how severe the problem is. Importantly there is no wrong way to give the remedies, and it is not necessary to be accurate with counting the drops. If you choose the wrong remedy there are no side-effects or toxicities and pets cannot be overdosed. The only error is not selecting the right remedy and it not working at all.
Pets can be given drops directly into mouth either at the corner of the lips or on the tongue. Wash the dropper if it touches the mouth. The drops can be added to drinking water (6 to 8 drops) each day. Drops can also be applied to the skin and ears with equal success, and if necessary mixed in with the food (although this is not preferable). A dropperful can be added to the bath water, as soaking in an essence can be beneficial. A dropperful can also be added to a mister or spray pack so that a kennel, room, cage or pet can be sprayed with the remedy.
Choosing the Remedies
Perhaps the easiest way to choose remedies is to firstly familarise yourself with the different essences that are available and see how closely they fit the description of your pet. The following descriptions are derived from human behaviours and emotions that are matched to remedies and are therefore highly anthropomorphic. You should select the most appropriate remedy, but there may be more than one that matches your pet’s circumstances or behaviour. You can select up to six remedies, although the fewer the better. You can count ‘Rescue Remedy’ as one essence, even though it consists of five separate flower essences.
Remember Bach Flower essences work best in conjunction with appropriate behavioural modification advice from your veterinarian or behavioural advisor.
Buy a properly mixed combination from the Natural Vet Company
Aspen“0 Comments”
admin | 11:31 am | | Flower Essences
Beech“0 Comments”
admin | 11:31 am | | Flower Essences
Beech is for the pet that is critical, fussy and intolerant. He may be fine with his own person, but may show tension or aggression towards other people or other pets. He is the pet who patrols the front yard, keeping an eye on all who pass by, giving them a snarl and a bark ‘keep away’. He might be the sort of pet that really resents the introduction of a new pup into the household. Territorial aggression may benefit from Beech. Pets who suffer allergies (intolerance) to pollens, grasses, insects and foods or who are intolerant to cold (arthritis worsens) or environmental change may also benefit from Beech. Pets that are particularly fussy or picky eaters may also benefit.
Centaury“0 Comments”
admin | 11:32 am | | Flower Essences
The centaury pet is the one who rolls over at your feet, wanting to please. She is generally quiet, shy, and even timid at times. She is the type of pet who will show her submission to other pets she meets, by rolling over and crouching before them. She might also be the pet who urinates when she is afraid of other pets. If she is a puppy she is the type who is easily pushed out of the way, unwilling to defend her position. This remedy is also useful for pets when fighting an illness or injury.
Cerato“0 Comments”
admin | 11:32 am | | Flower Essences
This remedy is useful for the pet that is difficult to train because he is easily distracted and/or he learns very slowly. When you go walking with him, he is likely to dawdle and run towards you, then perhaps change his mind as he is distracted by something else he smells. He may be the pet who is restless, underfoot and who vocalises for attention, but then is distracted. This remedy may also be useful for the pet that barks constantly for no apparent reason.
Cherry Plum“0 Comments”
admin | 11:32 am | | Flower Essences
Cherry plum is one of the five flowers used in Rescue Remedy. This remedy is for pets that lose control. The pet who hates been restrained and struggles furiously to be let go, or the pet who becomes aggressive or hysterical when he is scared, lifting his lips and snarling to warn you, even though he may be a nice pet normally. Fear aggression may benefit from this remedy. Pets that are very aggressive and difficult to control may benefit from cherry plum but professional advice is absolutely essential for safety. Some pets who chew their feet constantly, or that have lick granulomas may also benefit, as can pets that have incontinence.
Chestnut Bud“0 Comments”
admin | 11:33 am | | Flower Essences
Chestnut bud is a great remedy for training, obedience and breaking bad habits. The pet that is slow to learn from experience or keeps making the same mistakes or who repeats the same bad habit over and over again may benefit from Chestnut bud. It is a useful remedy to add to any blend for modifying behaviour in conjunction with conventional behavioural modification techniques.
Chicory“0 Comments”
admin | 11:33 am | | Flower Essences
Chicory is for the possessive and jealous pet, the pet that is constantly underfoot or demanding attention. She wants to be either sitting in your lap, under your chair, or may have her head always touching you whenever she is able. She is likely to be over-protective towards family members, an excellent watchpet. She may try to dominate other pets in the family, and even family members if she is allowed. She is the sort of pet that will growl at other pets in the household and may even attack other pets.
Clematis“0 Comments”
admin | 11:33 am | | Flower Essences
Clematis is one of the five flowers used in Rescue Remedy. It is especially useful when pets are ungrounded or lethargic such as after surgery, following a shock or trauma, exhaustion, long whelping or period of illness. The remedy can help recovery from unconsciousness. The pet may be absent minded, or dreamy. Many old pets benefit from this remedy. It is also useful for those pets that have a very short attention span during training, similar to the effect of cerato. In this case though the pet is almost preoccupied in its own world and even indifferent. Pets that have central nervous system disorders, poor balance (such as vestibular disease) or that may be senile may benefit from Clematis.
Crab Apple“0 Comments”
admin | 11:34 am | | Flower Essences
Crab-apple is an excellent cleansing remedy. Pets that have smelly skin, discharging wounds or incontinence, and pets after poisoning, general anaesthetics, infections or rubbish eating, will benefit from this remedy. It can be used externally as well in baths, by simply adding a few drops to the water. It can also be used as a detoxifying remedy at the start of any program for the treatment of long-term chronic disease. This pet may seem to be ashamed (poor self-image), slinking around with her head held low, her tail between her legs, particularly if she has been reprimanded for something she has done, such as leaving a pool of urine on the floor if she is incontinent.
Elm“0 Comments”
admin | 11:34 am | | Flower Essences
Elm is a remedy that might be useful when a pet is feeling overwhelmed. He may be attending a pet show, obedience trial or agility trial or grooming salon, where his preference is to sit under the table or behind you. He may also be ill at ease, but not afraid, when travelling, or visiting the vet. This is also useful for pets that have seen their people in need of help, but they have been unable to assist. There is perhaps a feeling of inadequacy.
Gentian“0 Comments”
admin | 11:34 am | | Flower Essences
Gentian is a good remedy for pets that seem depressed or easily discouraged. Depression can arise from debilitation, following recovery from major surgery or trauma, if your pet loses his friend or is grieving either because of a death in the household, or somebody leaving the household. Sometimes pets can also become depressed if left alone all day. Some older pets may also be depressed especially if suffering from obesity or pain such as with chronic arthritis, bad teeth or back pain. Any setback may benefit from this remedy.
Gorse“0 Comments”
admin | 11:34 am | | Flower Essences
Gorse is the remedy for despair and hopelessness. This may be a pet that is refusing to eat following sickness or surgery or loss of her person. She prefers to isolate herself or hide away from everything. She may be a pet that is taking much longer than normal to recover from an illness or surgery. She may be a pet that has lost her way and seems to have given up. Gorse will help to give added motivation and encouragement.
Heather“0 Comments”
admin | 11:35 am | | Flower Essences
Heather is a useful remedy for separation anxiety, for the pet that constantly vocalises to gain your attention, and the pet that is constantly nudging you for attention. This is the pet that loves to be the center of attention. His behaviour may border on obsessive. He may whine and cry when left alone or bark for attention. This pet is usually very friendly and is lonely by himself.
Holly“0 Comments”
admin | 11:35 am | | Flower Essences
Holly is an appropriate remedy for aggression, particularly where the pet is suspicious, unsure of itself, appears angry or vengeful towards other pets. This pet will attack to bite, but under different circumstances may be quite a pleasant pet. Holly can be given for most forms of aggression along with appropriate professional advice and behaviour modifying techniques.
Honeysuckle“0 Comments”
admin | 11:36 am | | Flower Essences
Honeysuckle is useful when there are changed circumstances, when the pet is re-housed, its owner has left, the pet is kennelled or he is staying at the veterinary hospital. It is a remedy for homesickness. It helps calm anxiety and helps the pet to settle down.
Hornbeam“0 Comments”
admin | 11:37 am | | Flower Essences
This is a remedy for tiredness and exhaustion. It may be after a competition or show, or a strenuous weekend walking and running. It is also useful for pets that seem to be disinterested in playing with other pets.
Impatiens“0 Comments”
admin | 11:37 am | | Flower Essences
As the name implies, this remedy is for pets that are impatient, irritable, constantly on the go. It is another of the five flowers used in Rescue Remedy, as it may help to alleviate discomfort and pain (caution, do not rely on this remedy as a cure for pain—seek veterinary attention). This pet is typically anxious, she will be fidgety around feeding time, or when trying to work with her. Pets with nervous symptoms such as tremors, shaking, twitches or seizures may benefit from this remedy.
Larch“0 Comments”
admin | 11:37 am | | Flower Essences
This is the remedy for any pet lacking in confidence. It may be unsure of itself in the show ring and competition or the type of pet that is very submissive; rolling over in front of people and other pets or cowering if approached. Pets which have been in shelters or that have been abused may benefit from this remedy.
Mimulus“0 Comments”
admin | 11:38 am | | Flower Essences
Mimulus is suitable for pets that are afraid of certain things. It may be another pet, a type of person, black socks, perhaps thunder or loud noises. This pet may urinate if frightened, or hide under the bed. Mimulus can be used with
Mustard“0 Comments”
admin | 11:38 am | | Flower Essences
Mustard is an appropriate remedy for a melancholy pet or a pet that is depressed on and off. It may be because of a chronic illness, or perhaps grief over a lost loved one. This pet prefers to be on his own. Mustard may also be useful where the pet is suffering hormone imbalances as an adjunct to treatment.
Oak“0 Comments”
admin | 11:38 am | | Flower Essences
Oak is a remedy for struggling, where a pet might be injured or debilitated but still keeps on trying. She may be a pet that has lost the use of one leg for example, but she struggles to keep up all the same. She may be a pet who has suffered from malnutrition and is weak. Also pets that compete in endurance trials or long competitions might benefit from this remedy. Oak may be used where there is physical exertion or stress.
Olive“0 Comments”
admin | 11:38 am | | Flower Essences
Olive is one step further than oak; it is for complete and utter exhaustion. Like oak it can be used in endurance activities, extra long walks and runs, and for pets that are lethargic and tired following trauma or physical stress. Where there has been a lot of stress the adrenal glands can become depleted, these pets sometimes suffer from allergies. Olive may also be useful where a pet has lost some particular function such as the use of its bladder, or paralysis of the legs.
Pine“0 Comments”
admin | 11:38 am | | Flower Essences
Pine is for the pet that assumes guilt—although guilt is hard to define in pets. Often what is taken for guilt is submission because the pet has been reprimanded when his owner has been upset. This remedy may be appropriate where the pet tries to please even though he may be mistreated or rejected by someone in the house. He would be the type of pet that would be submissive and try very hard to please, only to be knocked back because he is all over someone.
Red Chestnut“0 Comments”
admin | 11:39 am | | Flower Essences
This remedy is for pets that show too much concern for others, either their people, their pups or other pets. They are often quite apprehensive about their owners, and while not overly protective, they will worry. This pet is the type to fret after her owner, perhaps suffering from mild separation anxiety. She might also wait at the door for her owner’s return or if tied up outside a shop, pull on her lead to be nearer her owner.
Rock Rose“0 Comments”
admin | 11:39 am | | Flower Essences
Rock rose is another essence in Rescue Remedy. It is a remedy for extreme terror, fright, panic or shock. Pets that tremble and shake when they are frightened or that damage furniture or knock things over in a panic should be given this essence. It is useful in storms, thunder, lightning, or when loud noises are expected such as fireworks.
Rock Water“0 Comments”
admin | 11:39 am | | Flower Essences
This remedy is the only one not derived from flowers. Nevertheless it is a remedy for stiffness, rigidity and inflexibility. Pets that are very stubborn, that refuse to cooperate or who reject newcomers may benefit from this remedy. Pets that have a very fixed pattern of behaviour, always taking the same path, or doing the same things at the same time might benefit from this. It might also be useful for pets with arthritis and muscular stiffness.
Scleranthus“0 Comments”
admin | 11:40 am | | Flower Essences
Scleranthus is the remedy for imbalance, and one-sided problems, be they mood changes, hormonal imbalances, neurological problems such as strokes, hind limb incoordination, head tilt or vestibular disease. It might also be used for travel sickness.
Star of Bethlehem“0 Comments”
admin | 11:40 am | | Flower Essences
This remedy is another of the flowers used in Rescue Remedy, a comforter, used to aid in recovery from traumas experienced in the past that still influence behaviour and health now. This pet is quiet, perhaps withdrawn, resigned. Rescue pets and adopted pets may benefit, particularly if the past history is unknown. Pets that suffer separation anxiety may also benefit from remedy.
Sweet Chestnut“0 Comments”
admin | 11:40 am | | Flower Essences
Sweet chestnut is for extreme anguish, a pet that has reached its limits of endurance. It can be used in conjunction with conventional drugs used for pain control following particular surgery, or in conjunction with medicines, when the condition is known to be painful. Pets that are absolutely exhausted physically and mentally may benefit from this remedy.
Vervain“0 Comments”
admin | 11:41 am | | Flower Essences
Vervain pets are highly-strung pets. They tend to be hyperactive and exhausting for their people to be around. Constantly panting, moving, jumping, barking, on the go. This remedy may assist to calm these pets. It may also be a useful remedy for pets that have a tendency to escape or roam when given the opportunity.
Vine“0 Comments”
admin | 11:41 am | | Flower Essences
Vine pets can be very dominant. They may be very stubborn and strong-willed. They may even try to dominate their people. This remedy can be used along with appropriate behaviour management.
Walnut“0 Comments”
admin | 11:41 am | | Flower Essences
Walnut is the remedy for change. It helps pets to let go of one set of circumstances and more readily accept another. This might be when there is a new pet in the family, or family member, a move to a new home, travel, a new owner and following surgery. It can also be used in training to help the pet learn new things. Walnut helps protect from outside influences and may also be useful where there are allergies or skin irritations.
Water Violet“0 Comments”
admin | 11:41 am | | Flower Essences
Water violet is an essence for aloof pets. This is the type of pet who prefers to be alone, avoiding contact with strangers and other pets. It is also an appropriate remedy for grief.
White Chestnut“0 Comments”
admin | 11:42 am | | Flower Essences
White chestnut is a useful remedy for pets which are always restless, that never seem to settle but they are not hyperactive. Older pets that have disturbed sleep, getting up in the middle of the night to wake their people, or pets that seem restless before competition or showing may benefit. This remedy helps settle them and encourages calm and better rest.
Wild Oat“0 Comments”
admin | 11:42 am | | Flower Essences
Wild oat is a remedy to assist boredom. This pet might chew on things or destroy things from boredom. He may also be a pet that suffers separation anxiety by focusing on a particular piece of furniture or one door, chewing or scratching away.
Wild Rose“0 Comments”
admin | 11:42 am | | Flower Essences
Wild rose is appropriate for pets that are apathetic, such as pets confined to small spaces; they have gone beyond boredom and have no zest. This remedy helps pep them up.
Willow“0 Comments”
admin | 11:42 am | | Flower Essences
Willow is the remedy for resentment. While it is difficult to know if a pet is resentful it might be a useful remedy for pets which seem to urinate or deposit a stool in an inappropriate place, or that may be destructive and seemingly willful.