Herbs for Pets

Book excerpt: Herbs for Pets, by herbalists and holistic experts Gregory L. Tilford and Mary L. Wulff, is the bible for all pet owners looking to enhance their companion animals’ lives through natural therapies. Now in its second revised edition, Herbs for Pets is an indispensable resource, an exhaustive compendium of medicinal plants and natural remedies that hosts an illustrated tour through Western, ayurvedic, and Chinese herbs that grow in North America, including their holistic applications and contraindications, and alternative approaches to treating a wide range of ailments. Remedies in the book are applicable to dogs and cats, as well as birds, small mammals, and even farm animals. The book is organized into three chapters, the first is dedicated to the “Principles and Practices of Herbalism,” discussing the many facets of herbs, concerns about toxicity, basic herbal preparation, the ethical use of herbs, the connection between herbs and diet, and using herbs as dietary supplements. Chapter 2, titled “Materia Medica: An A-Z Guide to Herbs for Animals,” is an exhaustive 150-page section presenting color photographs and text about the appearance, habitat and range, cycle and bloom season, parts used, primary medicinal activities, strongest affinities, common uses, availability, propagation and harvest, alternatives and adjuncts, and cautions and comments for 65 different herbs (from Alfalfa to Yucca!). The common uses section is extensive for each herb, discussing the nutrient value, various qualities, and ways in which the herb is used for specific treatments. The third chapter of the book is titled “An Herbal Repertory for Animals: Ailments and Treatments” and details remedies for the following: anxiety, nervousness, and behavioral problems; arthritis and hip dysplasia; cancer; cardiovascular problems; digestive system problems; ear problems; elderly animal care; endocrine system and related problems; epilepsy, convulsions, and seizures; eye problems; first aid, immune system care; mouth and nose problems; parasite-related problems; pregnancy and lactation; skin problems; and urinary problems. The authors share over two dozen herbal remedies for various ailments, from asthma and pneumonia to constipation and eye cleaner. A glossary of over 200 terms is included, as are references and a comprehensive index.