Valerian essence
Valerian essence is a herbal remedy obtained from the root of the valerian plant (Valeriana officinalis). It has a calming effect on the nervous system and is often used for stress, anxiety or sleep disorders. But can valerian essence also be used for dogs? And if so, how should it be dosed and used? In this article, you'll find out everything you need to know about valerian essence for dogs.
What is valerian essence?
Valerian essence is a liquid concentrate made from the dried and crushed root of the valerian plant. The root contains various ingredients that have a calming effect on the nervous system, such as valerenic acid, valepotriates or iridoid glycosides. These substances bind to certain receptors in the brain and increase the release of messenger substances such as GABA, which promote relaxation and sleep.
Valerian essence is available in various forms, for example as drops, tablets or capsules. The concentration and composition of valerian essence can vary depending on the manufacturer, so you should always read the package leaflet and stick to the recommended dosage.
How does valerian essence work in dogs?
Valerian essence can have a calming effect on dogs in a similar way to humans. It can help to relax and calm dogs in stressful or anxiety-inducing situations. Such situations can be, for example
- A visit to the vet
- moving house
- Thunderstorms or fireworks
- being alone
- traveling
- Aggression or hyperactivity
Valerian essence can not only alleviate the symptoms of stress or anxiety, but also address the cause. It can improve the dog's learning behavior and adaptability by promoting attention and concentration. This allows the dog to cope better with new or difficult situations and have positive experiences.
How should valerian essence for dogs be dosed and used?
The dosage and use of valerian essence for dogs depends on various factors, such as the dog's weight, age, state of health and reason for administration. In addition, you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions and stick to the recommended dosage.
As a general rule, valerian essence for dogs should always be started with caution and in small quantities to test the tolerance and effect. You should also make sure that the dog has enough water available, as valerian essence can increase the need for fluids.
The most common form of administration of valerian essence for dogs is as drops. These can either be given directly into the dog's mouth or mixed with its food or water. The drops should be given about 30 minutes before the stressful or anxiety-inducing situation so that they can take full effect.
The dosage of valerian drops for dogs depends on the dog's weight. A possible guideline is
- Up to 10 kg : 2 to 4 drops
- 10 to 20 kg: 4 to 8 drops
- 20 to 40 kg: 8 to 16 drops
- Over 40 kg: 16 to 32 drops
This dosage can be adjusted as required, but you should not give more than twice the amount. Valerian drops for dogs should also not be given more than three times a day.
In addition to drops, there are also valerian tablets or capsules for dogs. These have the advantage that they allow a more precise dosage and have a longer effect. However, they can also be more difficult to administer, as some dogs do not swallow them voluntarily. You can try hiding the tablets or capsules in a treat or some food, or dissolving them in a little water and squirting them into the dog's mouth.
The dosage of valerian tablets or capsules for dogs also depends on the dog's weight. A possible guideline is
- Up to 10 kg : 50 to 100 mg
- 10 to 20 kg : 100 to 200 mg
- 20 to 40 kg: 200 to 400 mg
- Over 40 kg: 400 to 800 mg
This dosage can be adjusted according to need, but should not be more than double. You should also not give valerian tablets or capsules for dogs more than twice a day.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of valerian essence for dogs?
Valerian essence for dogs has some benefits, but there are also some disadvantages to be aware of.
The benefits include:
- It is a natural and herbal remedy that contains no chemical additives.
- It has a calming and relaxing effect on the dog without sedating it or altering its personality.
- It can improve the dog's learning behavior and adaptability by promoting attention and concentration.
- It has no known interactions with other medications or supplements.
- It is relatively inexpensive and readily available.
Disadvantages include:
- It may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness or restlessness, especially if overdosed or hypersensitive.
- It can affect the dog's sense of smell as it has a strong inherent odor.
- It can increase the effect of other tranquilizers, so it should not be given at the same time as other drugs such as melatonin or CBD.
- It can be addictive, so it should not be given permanently or regularly, but only when needed.
Valerian essence is a herbal remedy that has a calming effect on the nervous system of dogs. It can help to relax and calm the dog in stressful or anxiety-provoking situations. It can also improve the dog's learning behavior and adaptability by promoting attention and concentration.
Valerian essence is available in various forms, for example as drops, tablets or capsules. The dosage and application depends on various factors, such as the dog's weight, age, state of health and reason for administration. In addition, you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions and stick to the recommended dosage.
Valerian essence has some advantages, but also some disadvantages that you should be aware of. It can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness or restlessness, especially in case of overdose or hypersensitivity. It can also impair the dog's sense of smell, increase the effect of other tranquilizers or cause dependency. It should therefore always be started with caution and in small quantities to test tolerance and effect. You should also make sure that the dog has enough water available.
Valerian essence is not a miracle cure that solves all problems. It can only alleviate the symptoms of stress or anxiety, but not the cause.
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If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊
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