bedding with natural products contain- ing neem (gentle to pets, but toxic to parasites) to prevent infestations. Neem can help keep a dog free from fleas, ticks, lice, mites, flies and mosquitoes.
Other Seasonal Concerns Light-haired dogs and cats can get sun- burned if exposed to too much midday sun. A safe-rated sunblock can be ap- plied to the tips of the ears and the nose, plus the skin around the animal’s lips, to help prevent sunburn, pain and peeling. Many breeds can develop ear infec- tions during summer months, especially large-eared ones like Labradors and golden retrievers that love the water. Rinse or clean the dog’s ears with a solu- tion of equal parts water and vinegar. This lowers the ear’s pH, making it less hospitable to Malassezia yeast cells, the culprit behind most canine ear infections. Or use an herbal ear oil or ear treatment to keep a pet’s ears clean and healthy. To treat ear infections and other allergy symptoms from the inside out, add a probiotic supplement to a dog’s food. Many probiotics are labeled for veterinary use, but any human probi-
otic can be adapted for pets. Determine an approximate dose by dividing your pet’s weight in pounds by 100. For example, a 50-pound dog would take half the label’s recommend- ed dose, while a 10-pound cat or rabbit would get one-tenth. Because probiotics are considered safe and there is no toxic dose, larger amounts can be well toler- ated. Digestive enzymes added to a pet’s food help strengthen the immune system by improving digestion and the assimila- tion of nutrients.
Year-Round Exercise The better shape you and your pet are in, the more you’ll both enjoy summer—or any season. Like their human compan- ions, dogs and cats benefit from a healthy diet and active exercise that is increased gradually to prevent possible injury. Couch potato dogs need regular exercise, not just weekend workouts, and every exercise session should begin with a gradual warm-up and end with a gradual cool-down. If a dog chooses to overdo it, treat any resulting new, acute injuries with cold, and treat old, chronic injuries, soreness or joint pain with
warmth. Homeopathic arnica prepara- tions can help reduce pain and swelling. Athletic dogs enjoy long hikes, lengthy swims and everything else that summer has to offer. But as dogs age or recover from injuries, their joints can hurt or their body alignment can be altered. Systemic oral enzyme supplements and anti-inflammatory herbs, including boswellia, devil’s claw, feverfew and yucca can help older dogs remain active, and reduce the risk of injury in all dogs. Look for products labeled for pet use or adjust the label dose of human supple- ments based on the pet’s weight. Consult a veterinarian as needed.
Looking forward, the rapid growth of canine sports is making rehabilita- tion medicine a new veterinary spe- cialty. Complementary therapies such as acupressure, acupuncture, massage, chiropractic adjustments and physical therapy all can help a pet feel especially well cared for.
C.J. Puotinen is the author of Natural Relief from Aches and Pains, The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care and Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats.
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