Aromatherapy for your Dog?
Dogs first and most acute sense is, of course, smell. It was recommended to me recently that I try using pure lavender oil to help my nervous dog. I did some research and thought I would share in case any one else has a fearful / nervous / hyper / anxious dog... upon learning more about how lavender can help soothe and calm animals (including humans!) nerves, I also came across a few other great uses for lavender oil and your pet.
If you would like to begin using essential lavender oil as aromatherapy, please be sure to only purchase completely pure lavender oil, with no other preservatives / chemicals. It should have a label with information, or is a brand you feel comfortable with. Next, be sure to dilute the essential oil with water. You can put a few drops into a spray bottle with water. The amount of oil per water depends mostly on the size of your dog. You should consult your vet for an appropriate amount. I just put a few drops into a 10 oz spray bottle, until I felt the smell was not overpowering for my 14 lb dogs.
Besides calming your pup, lavender oil can also be used to help house train by smell association.
Here are some applications:
Spray your entire house with the pure diluted lavender oil mixture.
Give your dog a sponge bath with a few drops of lavender oil. (Now your dog smells like the house! Make sure to spray his/her favorite potty spots if you want to help house train your dog.)
Spray your car with the lavender oil mixture.
You can topically apply a small amount to the chest and neck of your pup.
Spray the mixture onto bedding to help induce a more peaceful sleep
You can also spray this mixture before you leave in order to help with separation anxiety.
And you can help keep bugs and parasites away from your dog (lavender is a natural mosquito repellent)
As always, be mindful of the effect it has on your pet. You should use a small amount at first. Do not give your dog lavender oil internally.