Aromatherapy for pets does not include scented candles, the use of synthetic fragrance or incense. It does not use potpourri or scented shampoos or lotions. It does use pure, unadulterated essential oils which are specifically diluted for use with dogs. That dilution is usually on par with what you would use for a human baby of one year of age or 25% of the dose you would give to an adult. Of course, there are certain essential oils which we would avoid using on children, and we avoid using those on dogs as well.

Dogs are fascinated with the scent of truly natural essential oils. While dogs may shy away from synthetic scents and perfumes, they are drawn to essential oils. Perhaps they know that they are of botanical origin, or perhaps they are just so used to the cloying scent of synthetic products that their attraction is one of innate curiosity. Either way, dogs appear to have a strong affinity for essential oils.

The use of nature's most concentrated botanical substances, essential oils, are an excellent way to calm dogs who are fearful, agitated and hyperactive. The very nature of these substances is such that they work quickly and do not leave the animal in a drugged or listless state, as common tranquilizers such as Valium do. Unlike herbal calming tablets, which take time to digest, aromatherapy essential oils are inhaled or absorbed through the skin, and they work quickly.

So, for the holidays, you can use a natural blend of calming essential oils such as Pet Naturals’ “OM” essential oil blend. “OM” is a gentle, fragrant blend specially designed to promote relaxation and to ease tension and anxiety during times of stress. It is very concentrated, and has been used effectively to reduce stress related to car travel, thunder storms and visitors to the house. It can be applied topically or diffused into the air into rooms frequented by your pet. It also has a calming affect on humans….

With canines essential oils have a wide variety of effective uses. With essential oils and oil blends, you can calm down visiting canines who may be in heat, help hot spots to heal faster, and ensure that your dog has a healthy coat and skin. Dogs don’t have to have a doggie odour; with a healthy diet and the use of essential oils, they can naturally smell sweet. As well, with essential oils, fleas and ticks are generally not a problem. That’s a stress no one needs during the holidays. However, if your dog or cat does happen to pick them up, using an effective essential oil spray and shampoo, such as those from Pet Naturals, will help to make short work of the problem.

So do yourself and your pet a favor, keep good quality essential oils and reputable essential oil products on hand. It will help to ensure a safer, happier and healthier holiday.

Caution: only use essential oils for felines with guidance.
Although the occasional use of essential oils is justifiable for felines (e.g. flea spray), their livers cannot process the naturally occurring phenols in essential oils, which then build up and can cause problems later in life. As well, a feline’s acute sense of smell may make the direct use of strong smelling essential oils less than appealing.