The Herby Hound

17/08/2024

Activated charcoal can be handy to keep around. It's great for quite a few things but if your pooch smells less than desirable, activated charcoal is fab. If ingested it can control both bad breath and bad body odour as it binds to harmful bacteria and toxins in the gut, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. No more stinky pooch!!!

16/08/2024

Well, the answer to that is, yes!! If you'd like to know the pros and cons, here's the scoop:

Pros:
1. Pain relief: Acupuncture can help alleviate pain from conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other musculoskeletal issues in dogs.
2. Reduced stress and anxiety: Acupuncture can help calm anxious dogs and reduce stress-related behaviors.
3. Improved circulation: Acupuncture can improve blood flow and circulation, which may aid in the healing process for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries.
4. Complementary therapy: Acupuncture can be used alongside traditional veterinary treatments, providing a holistic approach to a dog's health.

Cons:
1. Limited scientific evidence: While there is anecdotal evidence supporting the benefits of acupuncture for dogs, there is a lack of extensive scientific research to fully support its efficacy.
2. Risk of injury: If not performed by a trained and experienced veterinary acupuncturist, there is a risk of injury or adverse effects from incorrect needle placement.
3. Time and cost: Acupuncture treatments can require multiple sessions and may be costly, especially if they are not covered by pet insurance.
4. Compliance: Some dogs may not tolerate the needle insertion or may struggle to remain still during the acupuncture session, making it less effective or even stressful for the dog.

So there you have it. If you feel that acupuncture would be a great holistic therapy for your pooch, make sure you go the appropriate professional.

Let me know in the comments if your dog has tried it, I'd love to know!😻

15/08/2024

I wonder why I love France so much!!!!!

15/08/2024

Dogs grieve in their own unique way, just like humans do. When a dog experiences loss, they may exhibit signs of depression, anxiety, changes in behavior, loss of appetite, and lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Dogs can grieve over the loss of a loved one, such as a family member or another pet, changes in their environment, or even changes in routine.

To help dogs cope with grief, herbal remedies can be effective in providing support and comfort during this difficult time. Here are some herbs that can be beneficial for dogs experiencing grief:

1. Chamomile: Known for its calming effects, chamomile can help soothe anxious and stressed dogs. It can be used in tea form or as a supplement to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of sadness.

2. Skullcap: Skullcap is a powerful herb that can help dogs with anxiety and grief. It can have a calming effect on the nervous system and promote a sense of peace and well-being.

3. Valerian: Valerian is another herb that can help dogs cope with grief and anxiety. It can help promote relaxation and reduce stress and tension.

So, if you think that your pooch is grieving, pop the kettle on and make them a cup of herbal tea.

14/08/2024

Sesame seeds are tiny little powerhouses, fabulous for your pooch. Here's how they can help:

1. Rich in nutrients: Sesame seeds are packed with essential nutrients such as protein, fibre, calcium, magnesium, and copper and omega-6 fatty acids which are all vital for your dog’s overall health and well-being.

2. Antioxidants: Sesame seeds contain antioxidants such as sesamol and sesamin, which can help protect your dog’s cells from damage caused by free radicals.

3. Digestive health: The fibre content in sesame seeds can help improve your dog’s digestion and prevent constipation.

So when you're sprinkling some of these beauties in your smoothie or on your salad, keep a small spoonful back for your pooch!!😻

13/08/2024

In the ancient Chinese civilisation, the use of herbs for healthcare and well-being for dogs was a common and revered practice. Among the herbal remedies used, ginseng played a prominent role in promoting vitality, energy, and overall well-being in dogs. Believed to strengthen the body's resistance and vitality, ginseng was highly valued for its ability to support health and longevity.

Astragalus, another revered herb in ancient Chinese medicine, was known for its immune-boosting properties, enhancing the body's ability to resist disease and illness. Its use in promoting overall health and wellness in dogs was widely recognized and valued.

Schisandra berries were utilised for their benefits in tonifying the kidneys and liver, supporting digestion, and balancing the body's energy levels. With antioxidant properties, these berries were believed to protect against free radical damage and promote overall health.

Ginkgo biloba, a prized herb in ancient Chinese culture, was commonly used to improve cognitive function, support cardiovascular health, and enhance memory in dogs. It was renowned for its ability to promote blood flow to the brain and support overall cardiovascular health.

When combined, these herbs formed a powerful framework for promoting the well-being of dogs in ancient Chinese civilisations. Their use reflected a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of health and vitality and the importance of maintaining balance within the body.

We still use these herbs today, thousands of years later.

The reason I harp on about herbs and the ancients is that while there may be a lack of clinical studies on a lot of herbs, the empirical evidence shows us that these herbs have been used for the same issues throughout the centuries with great effectiveness and that we should trust that they will work the same way today.

13/08/2024

Think again!!!!

If you'd like to forage for your own herbs and you live in a city or busy town and don't have a garden, here's what you can do:

✅ Go to your nearest park or green space. At the very least, you'll find nettle, dandelion and plantain. These are 3 really powerful herbs.

✅Look for a local foraging group. This can be a great way to learn about herbs in your area.

✅If you know someone who has a garden, why not ask if you could pop over and take a look at what herbs they have.

Make sure that you positively identify any herbs you do find. Ensure that they are situated somewhere where pesticides or dog p*e can't reach and wash them thoroughly when you get home! Happy foraging!!😁

12/08/2024

If your pooch is uncomfortable as they've caught too many rays, try this after sun spray:

- 1 cup of distilled water
- 2 tablespoons of calendula flower petals
- 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers
- 1 teaspoon of witch hazel
- 5 drops of lavender essential oil

Instructions:
1. In a small pot, bring the distilled water to a boil.
2. Turn off the heat, then add the calendula flower petals and chamomile flowers to the water.
3. Let the mixture steep for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain out the flower petals and flowers and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Once cooled, add the witch hazel and lavender essential oil to the mixture.
6. Pour the after sun spray into a clean spray bottle.
7. To use, spray the mixture onto your dog's skin after being in the sun to help soothe any irritation and redness.

Always be sure to do a patch test on your dog's skin before fully applying the spray, as some dogs may be sensitive to certain ingredients.

⚠ If the sunburn is severe or does not improve, be sure to consult with a professional.

11/08/2024

11/08/2024

These 3 herbs will take over your garden if you let them:

Mint: This herb has rapidly spreading roots and strong growth habits.

Lemon Balm: Is a member of the mint family and has to be controlled.

Valerian: A fab herb but it produces lots and lots of seeds leading to a rapid spread in the garden.

Folks, you have been warned: keep these bad boys in pots or risk never seeing your garden again!! 😁

10/08/2024

Did you know that the word 'lavender' comes from the Latin word 'lavare' which means 'to wash'. This is because ancient Romans and Greeks used lavender in their bath water for it's calming and soothing properties.

Interesting, huh??

10/08/2024

If you have been trying out a herb for 2 to 4 weeks on a consistent basis and it still appears that it's not working, here are 3 things you can do:

1. Adjust the dose. It could be that a higher or lower dosage may be needed for the herb to be effective for the individual pooch.

2. Try a different herb. Not all herbs work the same for every dog so it may be worth trying another herb with similar properties.

3. You could try combining herbs for better efficacy. For example if you're giving your pooch turmeric, maybe try adding in Boswellia, as they are often combined to improve effectiveness.

⚠ You should be doing your own research anyway but especially for option 3. Make sure that the herbs are compatible and actually do increase efficacy. Also, make sure that they don't interfere with any other medications your dog may be taking. If in doubt, get advice from a professional.

Drop a comment below if you ever tried herbs that didn't appear to work. What did you do about it? 😻

09/08/2024

Like us, dog's can suffer with phobias. They can be caused by genetics, traumatic experiences or maybe a lack of exposure during the critical socialisation and habituation period.

Common phobias include: noise phobias, separation anxiety, fear of strangers, fear of other animals and even fear of an inanimate object.

While you may need to address these phobias with a professional, you could also try giving them passionflower tea. It's known for it's anti-anxiety and calming effects and may help your pooch to relax.

Drop a comment if your pooch has a phobia.

09/08/2024

It's worrying when your pooch won't eat. Try this and see if it helps to bring back his appetite:

1 cup of cooked rice
1/2 cup of chicken or turkey
1/4 cup of Greek yoghurt
1 Tbsp. pureed pumpkin
1/4 tsp. ginger powder
1/4 tsp. turmeric powder.

Mix it together and offer a tiny amount to your dog. If it's still a no go, try adding a small amount of bone broth. Yummy!!

08/08/2024

If your pup is having a tough time with teething, why not try making chamomile and peppermint tea ice cubes.

Simply brew a chamomile tea and a peppermint tea. Let them cool and then pour into an ice cube tray.

The chamomile is known for it's anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce any swelling or discomfort in your pup's gums. The peppermint has natural analgesic properties and a cooling effect which will help numb the pain.

Try it and your pup will soon be feeling better!!

08/08/2024

Are you interested in making a herb infused oil but are unsure what oil to use. Here are 3 oils that are safe for your pooch:

1. Coconut oil: Coconut oil can help moisturise your dog's skin and it promotes a healthy coat and can soothe any irritation and itching.

2. Olive oil: Olive oil can be used to moisturise and soothe your dog's skin as well as provide a shiny coat. It also contains antioxidants and vitamins that can not only benefit their skin but their overall health too.

3. Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is non-toxic and can help soothe dry, irritated skin, reduce inflammation and promote healing. It's rich in vitamins and minerals that can really give your dog's skin and coat a boost.

If you've tried any of these, let me know in the comments!!

07/08/2024

Devil's claw: A fabulous joint supplement for dogs. It reduces stiffness, improves mobility and maintains healthy joints without debilitating side effects.

⚠ DO NOT give if your pooch is taking anticoagulants.

07/08/2024

I don't think I've ever done an introduction post, so here goes!!

I'm Andrea and these 2 pooches are Storm and Pea.

My herbal adventure started over 2 years ago when these two (and my cat Simba, not shown) got fleas. I tried all of the 'over the counter' type medication but they just wouldn't go. I had been working with dogs for 11 years and asked my clients what they used but nothing seemed to work. These were warrior fleas that were clinging on for dear life!! Eventually, I had to get the vet to intervene but Simba had hallucinations with the flea medication and it was scary to watch.

While I was researching, I found that there were a number of herbal remedies I could have tried that were very gentle and my interest was piqued!!

I started reading herbal books and doing masses of research, which led to foraging books so I could harvest my own herbs and make my own remedies. I then did a herbalist course for humans and I was totally hooked. So, I signed up to do a Herbalist For Animals Diploma. The next step (as I want to concentrate on dogs) is to do an Acute Canine Herbalism course and then continue to study to build up my knowledge.

Typically, especially in the UK, vets receive limited training in canine nutrition and lack expertise in herbal remedies. Happily, this is changing as holistic veterinary practices are becoming more popular. But, in the meantime, I'm happy to pass on what I learn to help dog owners take more control of their animals health and well-being using herbs.

If you have any questions for me, I'd be happy to answer them!!

06/08/2024

Blueberries are a great superfood for dogs as they are rich in antioxidants, fibre, and vitamins. They can help boost the immune system, improve digestion, and contribute to overall health and well-being.

Blueberries are also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be especially beneficial for elderly dogs or those with joint pain or arthritis. They are low in calories and high in water content, making them a healthy snack option for dogs who may be overweight or need to maintain a healthy weight.

You can feed your dog fresh or frozen blueberries as a treat or mix them into their regular food for added nutrition. Just be sure to introduce them gradually to avoid any digestive issues.

Blueberries are a great favourite in my house, tag me when you try them with your pooches!!

06/08/2024

To help with anxiety in dogs, you can create a calming tea blend using herbs that are known for their soothing properties. Here is a recipe for a herbal tea blend that can help alleviate anxiety in dogs:

Ingredients:

1Tbsp. of each:
Dried chamomile flowers
Dried oat straw
Dried passionflower

1/2 Tbsp.
Dried lavender flowers

Instructions:
☕ In a small bowl, mix together all of the dried herbs.
☕ Boil 2 cups of water and pour over the herbal blend.
☕ Let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes.
☕ Strain the tea and let it cool to room temperature.
☕ Offer the tea to your dog in a small dish or mix it in with their food.
☕ You can give your dog this tea once a day to help calm their anxiety.

As ever, start with a small amount and monitor your pooch for adverse reactions.

If your pooch suffers with anxiety, try this and let me know how you got on!!

05/08/2024

Believe me when I tell you that spirulina is a super hero supplement. Here's why:

⭐ It contains antioxidants that can help strengthen your dog's immune system and protect against illness and disease.
⭐ It is a good source of dietary fibre, which can help promote healthy digestion and support overall gut health in dogs.
⭐The high levels of essential fatty acids in spirulina can help improve the condition of your dog's skin and coat, reducing itching and flakiness.
⭐It is a natural source of energy, making it a great supplement for active dogs or older dogs who may need a little extra pep in their step.
⭐It is known for it's high protein content and is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Wow!!! If your pooch needs supplementation, consider adding spirulina to their diet.

05/08/2024

…the root of this plant has been used throughout the centuries in herbal medicine. There is evidence that the Romans cultivated it to use as food and medicine.

This beautiful plant is common mallow and it grows pretty much everywhere. You may even have it in your garden like I have.

The root of the mallow, when it comes into contact with water, turns into mucilage, a sticky, gelatinous substance. It coats mucus membranes lubricating and soothing them.

So, if your pooch has bowel disease, constipation, digestive upset, a cough, bronchitis or other respiratory conditions, this is the plant to help.

From mouth to tail, a true hero plant!😻

04/08/2024

Cayenne pepper contains a compound called capsaicin, which has been shown to help stop bleeding by promoting blood clotting. When applied topically to a wound, cayenne pepper can help stop bleeding and sp*ed up the healing process.

If your pooch cuts themselves at home, you can create a paste by mixing cayenne pepper with a small amount of water to form a thick paste. Gently apply the paste to the wound and cover it with a bandage. The capsaicin in the cayenne pepper will help to promote blood clotting and reduce bleeding.

I expect that it stings a bit so be prepared!

⚠It is important to note that cayenne pepper should only be used on minor cuts and wounds in dogs. If your pooch has a severe injury or is experiencing excessive bleeding, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care.

03/08/2024

This is one of the biggest reasons to start incorporating herbs in your dog's diet on a daily basis.
Using herbs for your pooches' care can empower you as a dog owner, giving you more control over your dog's health and well being.
Need help? Follow this page and check out the link in the comments below to sign up to our FREE fortnightly newsletter.👇👇👇

03/08/2024

This is something you can make ahead of thyme (sorry!) and use when needed:

1 tablespoon of dried thyme leaves (or 3 tablespoons of fresh)
1 cup of boiling water

Steep the leaves in the water for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain when cool. Poor the liquid into a spray bottle.

It should keep in the fridge for 3 weeks or so. Use as you would any other antiseptic.

02/08/2024

I know Camellias aren't herbs but, infusing them in an oil, is fabulous for your pooch and here's why:

⭐It is rich in oleic acid which deeply hydrates the skin and coat, helping to combat dryness and flaky skin.
⭐It is absolutely full of antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals.
⭐It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated and itchy skin. This makes it a fab choice for pooches who have allergies or inflammatory skin conditions.

Yes, it works fabulously on human skin too, so plan a spa day for you and your pooch and try camellia oil together!!

02/08/2024

If your pooch is bloated, gassy and uncomfortable, it's perfectly safe to give them a small amount of raw fennel. It will ease their discomfort in a few hours.

⚠ Don't forget to monitor your pooch and adjust the amount of fennel accordingly.

01/08/2024

…You won't believe this but, you can use cooked carrots as a toothpaste for your pooch!! What? No way!

Yep, cooked carrots contain high levels of beta-carotene in the body which is important for maintaining health teeth and gums. Add in some cinnamon for it's antimicrobial properties and honey for it's antibacterial properties and there you have it...a toothpaste that your pooch will love!!

Tag me if you give this yummy toothpaste a try!! 🥕🥕🥕🥕

01/08/2024

If you have a barky pooch, chances are they sometimes get a sore throat.

Slippery elm to the rescue! You can buy slippery elm powder, mix it with water and it'll turn into a gel like paste which you can then offer to your pooch orally. It will coat their throat, protect the throat tissues, reducing inflammation and irritation.

Your dog will be barking, pain-free, again in no time!😻

01/08/2024

…I promise that the fabulous Hedgerow Herbs membership will be coming soon!! In typical 'me' fashion, I decided to change things up to make the membership better for you so it's taking a little extra time.

For people who don't know about it, the Hedgerow Herbs membership takes a deep dive into one common herb a month that will benefit your pooch.
There are herbal remedies, recipes, herbal first aid tips and more.
You will also have access to a private group on Facebook, a community of herb-loving dog owners so you can share your own tips and successes.
There is also a monthly Q & A where I answer any questions about the herb of the month.
All of this for an early bird cost of £27 per month.
Join the waiting list now, link in comments. 👇👇👇👇👇👇