Essential oils can be a contentious topic when it comes to our fur-friends. Can I use essential oils for dogs? Are essential oils safe for dogs? Is it safe to use essential oils on my pets? Will essential oils be a bother to my cats? All these are questions that we will aim to answer in this article.
Let’s start off by saying that animals, just like humans, can greatly benefit from using essential oils responsibly. Again, we refer you back to our Responsible Usage guide. While some oils can offer benefits like calming our pets down or repelling insects, others pose significant risks if used improperly. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you navigate.
General Guidelines & Cautions when using essential oils for dogs
Dilute! Again Dilute! And again Dilute! We always say that with essential oils, less is more. When it comes to animals, with extra sharp senses, this couldn’t be emphasised more. Less is more. It is vital to dilute these concentrated essential oils even more for use on or around animals. Dogs specifically, have a very keen sense of smell. What might not irritate you, can possibly irritate them – a lot.
When diffusing essential oils in a room where dogs and other pets are present, ensure that they have easy access in and out of the room. Always leave a door or window open for them to freely move in and out as they see fit. This will ensure sufficient ventilation in the room as well. Observe closely for signs of distress or allergic reactions such as excessive drooling or lethargy. However, these reactions should not be a problem if only a few drops of essential oils are added to your diffuser.
Always dilute the essential oil or essential oil blend in a carrier before you apply it topically. The general rule of thumb for animals smaller than 9kg, dilute 1ml of pure essential oil or essential oil blend in 100ml of carrier oil or cream. That is 1 drop to every 10ml carrier. For large dogs – 9kg and up – you can use 6 drops per 10ml. Rather use the dilution more often than use too much oil at one application. You can safely use a properly diluted oil or blend every 2 hours.
Some Guidelines on Carrier oils too
We prefer carriers such as Fractionated Coconut Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Sweet Almond Oil or even our Unscented Cream Base – to dilute the essential oil with. You can always increase the concentration if the desired effect is not reached, but remember Less is More. Each animal is an individual and your pet may be more or less sensitive than others. Observe their behaviour and how they react – they will clearly show you!
Never apply essential oils near a dog’s eyes, nose, or mouth. If the problem they are facing is one affecting these areas directly then ensure that the oil is properly diluted. Also ensure that the oil is one that is safe for the dog to ingest, especially if it is applied to an area they can lick if it irritates them.. That way, if they do get some in, it is only trace amounts and safe for consumption in those small amounts.
When diffusing essential oils in a room for dogs (other pets), ensure that they have easy access out of the room. Always leave a door open for them to freely move in and out as they see fit. This open door or window will ensure sufficient ventilation in the room as well. Observe for signs of distress or allergic reactions such as excessive drooling or lethargy. However, these should not be a problem if the dilution is properly done.
A bit about storage
Always keep oils stored securely and out of reach of pets to prevent accidental exposure. If accidental ingestion or skin irritation occurs we have a few options to help sort it out. Luckily, dogs are not like children in the sense that they would open a cupboard where the essential oils are stored, open a bottle and taste! The strong smell should prevent that, so accidental ingestion will not likely happen. In cases where it might happen, contact a Vet to help monitor your pet. Adding some charcoal or safe to ingest carrier oils at that stage might help calm the effect down a bit. If skin irritation occurs, immediately stop using that specific oil. Again, proper dilution should help you avoid this.
Benefits of essential oils for dogs
Here is a little list of essential oils that are safe to use on dogs. Remember the dosage is 1 drop per 10ml for dogs smaller than 9kg and up to 6 drops per 10ml for dogs bigger than 9kg.
Lavender: Helps them calm down. It can be used daily on dogs that have serious anxiety issues. Use during festive seasons when there are fireworks around or even during thunderstorms. Do not give internally to dogs. If it is used as a topical application, always dilute properly. A clever idea is to drip the essential oil on their collars instead of applying it directly to the skin. This way, the collar can be removed if the oils irritate the dog too much. A couple of drops in a diffuser is enough to help them calm down.
Roman Chamomile: A calming oil also. You can use it the same way you would lavender. Roman Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile can be ingested in a carrier oil.
Cedarwood: This one is useful for repelling ticks and fleas. Dilute with vodka or soapy water in a spray bottle to spray bedding and even on your dog’s back.
Frankincense: Supports immune health and can be applied topically. Can use internally diluted in a carrier oil 1 drop to 10ml and give 1ml at a time.
Safe and unique OilGrow Blends
Baby-zzz massage oil: Contains both Lavender and Roman Chamomile in a grapeseed oil carrier. Apply a little bit of this oil to the back of the neck or the chest of the dog to help relax the animal.
Bug Shield – can be used topically – diluted. Also use the Bug Shield Spray to spray their bedding. We have a soap bar that can be used to wash them with, as well as a lotion that can be used on their spines to help prevent ticks and fleas from climbing on them.
Calm – diffuse in a room where they can freely move in and out. Can also be used, diluted, to rub behind their ears.
Shampoo bar: Contains Cedarwood and other essential oils along with Shea butter and Coconut oil. Not only does it keep ticks and fleas away, but also improves hair growth and the condition of the fur coat.
Avoid these
Try to avoid using these essential oils in their concentrated forms on or around your dogs:
- Cinnamon
- Citrus such as Lemon
- Pennyroyal
- Peppermint
- Pine
- Sweet birch
- Tea tree
- Wintergreen
- Ylang Ylang
- Aniseed
- Clove
- Thyme
- Juniper
- Yarrow
- Garlic
Using essential oils for dogs can enhance their well-being when used cautiously. Always prioritize your pet’s safety and consult with a vet or one of our OilGrow Resellers if unsure about specific oils or applications. If you’d like to learn even more about using essential oils on all kinds of animals, visit Dr. Janet Roark’s website for information. Using essential oils around dogs requires caution and knowledge. While some oils can benefit dogs when used appropriately, others can be harmful.