Arnica for Dogs
Arnica for dogs is used for muscle aches, strains and injuries that may have been caused by trauma. Dogs who are suffering from emotional stress may also benefit from the use of Arnica. Arnica can be used to aid in the rehabilitation process after an injury has occurred to the brain or spinal cord.
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What Is Arnica?
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Arnica, also known as Leopard's Bane, is a perennial flower native to the European and Siberian mountains. The flower grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet and has a yellow-orange flower head that is similar to a daisy's. The flower has been used since the early 1500s for medicinal reasons and continues to be a source of homeopathic medicine today. For dogs, Arinica can be given orally, or as a topical treatment, to aid in discomfort due to an injury.
How Is Arnica Used on Dogs?
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Arnica comes in the form of a tablet, cream or gel.
The tablets can be given orally, pre-surgery and post surgery to aid in a faster healing time of the incision site. Arnica will also aid in the emotional stress that occurs during and after surgery.
The Arinca cream and gel may be applied to the area of the body where the dog has received trauma. This would include sore muscles, bruises, sprains and possible arthritis. The Arnica gels and creams should not be put on an open wound or abrasion. If there is an open sore, or an area of broken skin, the tablets should be used instead of the cream or gel.
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Possible Side Effects of Arnica
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Arnica, if used for long periods of time, may have side effects when used as a topical treatment. There may be redness or irritation around the area being treated. Because of this irritation, the dog may lick or chew on the area being treated. This may cause skin abrasions or lesions. If this happens, discontinue the topical treatment.
Arnica, if used for long periods of time as an oral treatment, may cause stomach irritation, throat irritation or mouth ulcers. If Arnica for dogs is used in a higher dosage than what is prescribed, possible side effects could include vomiting, diarrhea and organ failure. When used as a topical treatment, Arnica should never be used around the eye or mouth areas of a dog.
Herbal and Homeopathic Arnica
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Although herbal and homeopathic versions are used from the same flower, they are prepared differently. Make sure you are using the correct version of Arnica/Arnica Montana that will best deliver the pain management that the dog requires.
Be sure you are using the right type of treatment that pertains to the dog's specific injury, too, whether it be an oral dosage or topical treatment. Always follow the prescribed directions that come with Arnica for the particular treatment of the injury or trauma the dog has sustained. By following the specific directions, you will avoid over-medicating your dog and causing possible harm and unwanted side effects.
Natural Does Not Mean Safe
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Because a treatment or medication consists of an herbal remedy, it does not mean it is safe under all circumstances and that suggested dosages or treatments do not have to be followed. Herbal and homeopathy directions need to be followed as they are written. Just because a remedy claims it is made of natural ingredients, does not mean it is safe to use.
All injuries and ailments of a dog, as well as any medications prescribed or over the counter that you have given the dog or intend to give the dog, should be brought to the attention of a qualified veterinarian.
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References
- Photo Credit Lukasz Jernas/openphoto.net
