Do you use essential oils in your home? Do you use them on your dog? Then you’ll want to read this article.
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Can essential oils make your dog sick? What happens if your dog ingests essential oils?
What are Essential Oils?
We all want our homes to smell and be clean. Some of us use essentials for these and other purposes. But what are essential oils?
Essential oils are substances or compounds that are extracted from plants. In fact, they’re called “essential” because the oils take on the scent and flavor of the plants they come from. They’re much stronger than perfume in most cases.
To make essential oil, the parts of the plant are distilled or may be obtained through mechanical processes that include cold pressing. When the essential chemicals are extracted, they are combined with a carrier oil, so the product is ready to use when you buy it.
Essential oils are used in many ways including:
- Aromatherapy
- Topical application
- Internal application
This means that some essential oils can be used with an essential oil diffuser, which spreads its scent into the air of a room. They can also be applied to the skin but are usually mixed with water or another oil for this kind of application. They’re sometimes used in massage, in the bath, and more. Other essential oils can be taken internally, too. Here, though, you need to make sure the oil is meant for this purpose and follow directions for a correct application.
Some of the most popular types of essential oils include:
- Lavender: often used to relieve stress & help insomnia. It’s also sometimes applied to the skin when having a migraine.
- Peppermint: can be taken internally and is used to improve energy and digestion issues.
- Sandalwood: is used to calm nerves and help you focus.
- Bergamot: is used to reduce stress and improve skin conditions.
- Chamomile: is used for relaxation and to improve mood.
- Tea tree: is used to fight infections and improve immunity.
There are over 90 different essential oils, which can also be mixed together for different uses.
But can essential oils make your dog sick?
Essential Oils & Dogs
First, it’s important to know that there are some essential oils that are safe for dogs. These include:
- Tea tree
- Cinnamon
- Citrus
- Pine
- And more
Before using any essential oil on your dog, be sure to check with the vet first. They’ll be able to tell you for sure if the essential oil is safe for your dog, as well as how to use it properly.
Another important thing to understand about essentials oils is that they can be toxic if ingested. You may notice symptoms if your dog has ingested essential oils:
- Muscle tremors
- Weakness
- Difficulty walking
- Low body temperature
- Excessive drooling
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, then call the vet immediately. This could be a life-threatening emergency.
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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