9 Tips for a Healthy, Happy Pup

White Noise for Anxiety

It seems like a silly habit of guilty “dog parents,” but it’s true: leaving the TV or radio on low in the room next to your pup will keep him calm while you’re away.

Chamomile for Anxiety

To keep your dog calm on the way to the vet, spray his carrier or seat with some chamomile tea. The scent has a relaxing effect (even for pets!), and you’ll be able to spend more time focusing on the road, not on what your dog is doing.

Your Scent for Anxiety

Don’t toss those old sweatpants! Put them in your dog’s bed, and he’ll stay calmer and sleep better, having the scent of you nearby. This trick is also useful if you’re going on a trip—add an old piece of clothes that you haven’t washed to your dog’s carrier and he’ll be more relaxed.

Heat for Insomnia

If it takes your dog awhile to go to sleep, particularly on a cold winter night, use heat to ease her into slumber. Throw a large towel into the dryer for 5-10 minutes on high, then wrap around your dog’s bedding. Dogs (especially older ones) will love the feeling of heat on their muscles and will settle down faster.

Green Tea for Waxy Ears

Remove wax build-up in your pet’s ears with green tea. Using an eyedropper, place several drops of room-temperature tea into each ear, massaging at the base of the ear to loosen the wax. Wipe away any excess. Repeat twice daily until you see an improvement. (You should double-check with your vet to make sure this tip is OK for your particular furry friend.)

Witch Hazel for Ear Infections

If your poor pup is prone to uncomfortable ear infections, try this tip for keeping his ears clean. Twice a month, wipe down the inside of the ears with a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel. The astringent will help loosen wax and reduce the incidence of infection. Just be sure to ask your vet first!

Coconut Oil for Dandruff

To eliminate dog dandruff, massage a few tablespoons warm coconut oil into your pet’s fur. Wait 15 minutes, and then shampoo it out. Coconut oil will moisturize and exfoliate your pet’s skin, and can be found at most healthfood stores.

Elderberry Tea for the Common Cold

Pets get colds too! To help them get better fast, brew some elderberry tea, and put the liquid in their water bowl, a half cup at a time. Many holistic vets believe in this remedy,...

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