Dogs have long been considered "man's best friend" and have garnered the reputation of having unconditional love for us.
Just as sickness permeates our civilized world, so to does sickness permeate the animal kingdom.
With this knowledge we want the best for our dogs when they are sick, and the best in my estimation are natural remedies for dogs.
Vitamins are, by and large, the first easy step you can take in making your dog feel healthy and in tip top shape.
Like us humans it is easy to rationalize taking every vitamin under the sun, but it really isn't practical.
Multivitamins for dogs with enzymes are available, but you could also go the route of administering your own select individual ones.
Some essential vitamins for dogs that you could give individually are Vitamin A and B12, for improving the immune system, in addition to keeping the heart healthy and assisting in digesting food.
Vitamin E is another one that increases endurance and helps the blood flow.
Of course, all of these should be given in moderation and under the supervision of your veterinarian, but no doubt are beneficial to your pet.
Aside from vitamins, the second natural remedy would fall under the category or aromatherapy using oils.
Smells are not purely a cosmetic thing and have been proven to aid in making humans and dogs feel better.
The type of oils we are referring to come directly from plants and are not man made.
Man made oils, or synthetic oils, are the cosmetic ones.
The best method for administering this easy remedy is through a variety of ways, such as potpourri bowls, scenting the dog beds in a spritzer method, burning candles, among others.
Direct application to the dog's skin or coat is not recommended as it can irritate it and have adverse affects.
Dilution of these oils is also important to note when administering these oils.
Finally, the third natural remedy for dogs is herbal.
A lot of controversy has enveloped herbal remedies due mostly to the unregulated nature of this field, however some legislation is tying to change this.
If bought from a reputable company these can be helpful.
The easiest way to go about doing this is to find a local veterinarian who believes in herbal remedies and work hand in hand with them.
While there may be many other natural remedies for dogs out there, the three ones that have been mentioned are the basic ones that will get your pet started on the path to a healthy lifestyle.
Vitamins are easily administered and assist in everything from keeping a properly working immune system to regulating blood flow and aiding in a healthy heart.
Natural oils coming from plants and the use of aromatherapy to ease tension promotes mental health.
Herbal remedies are the final method and use natural ingredients to stimulate the dogs immune system as well, much in the same way natural oils do.
With proper diet and exercise these natural remedies will allow your dog the longevity it so deserves.