Apple Cider Vinegar: For Humans and for Pets

There is a lot of truth to the saying that the only way to ensure something is done right is to do it for yourself.  It can apply to many things, especially when considering the do-it-yourself remedies that are presented on the internet today.  It is possible to find anything from a chemical-free cleaner to beauty products made at home for a fresher, cleaner, and more economical and earth-friendly household.

While there are lots of ways to make you and your family healthier, do not forget about the well being of your beloved pup.  We all know that apple cider vinegar can do wonders for our health, but what about for dogs? Instead of heading to the nearest pet supply store for a solution for the pet’s finicky skin, try apple cider vinegar for your four-legged friends, a well-kept secret from most pet owners.

This natural treatment has many health benefits, including:

•  Natural detoxification as an antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal product.  The product helps to boost a pet’s immune system and to balance the helpful bacteria in the GI tract.  Most pets see improved stamina due to improvements in the immune system, resulting in a happier pet and fewer visits to the vet.
• If the pet experiences joint pain, this is an inexpensive option to bring relief.  It helps to normalize the pH of the blood and helps to dissolve calcium deposits in the joints.  This can help dogs suffering from arthritis or those who are more prone to the illness of the joints, including hip dysplasia.
• The product can help to prevent ear infections through their antibacterial properties.  Simply dip a cotton ball into the vinegar solution and clean the pet’s ears.  This can help any current infections to heal and also works to prevent infections in the future.
•  As it is rich in potassium and helps to detoxify, it is an excellent product for use with pets experiencing conditions such as heart problems, bladder stones, kidney infections, or constipation.
• It is also excellent for pet grooming for the skin and hair. It effectively treats the horrible itching and scratching your pet may have due to allergies.

With this type of resume, why are more pet owners not using the product?

Consider the following safety tips when using vinegar as a treatment for pets.

• Start by adding a few drops of vinegar to the dog’s drinking dish.  Be warned that some animals do not enjoy the taste.  For the picky drinker, try adding the vinegar to their food instead of the water.  It may also be mixed with raw honey to provide a special treat.  Slowly increase the concentration so the dog is consuming one teaspoon for every 15 pounds of body weight.  Once at this level, there should be a marked improvement in the pet’s skin and health within the first month.
• Always dilute the vinegar using water after you have ensured it is unpasteurized, unheated, raw, organic vinegar.
• Do not use the product around the pet’s eyes or around open sores.  Pets with overly acidic systems, chronic yeast infections, or irritated intestines should not be given this product.  Its acidity can make these conditions worse.

Home remedies often provide healthy yet inexpensive solutions to common problems.  When used correctly natural vinegar can help to keep a pet happy and healthy.  If you are uncertain about whether or not apple cider vinegar would help your pup, or if you have other health concerns, be sure to talk to your local dog nutrition specialist before beginning this treatment.