6 Must-Haves for the Dog Parent

We started this blog 4-years ago and since then I have been posting quite a bit on Canine health. It's a lot of information! This week, I decided I would consolidate some of the information into 6 "must-haves" for every dog parent. These are things that you should have in your pantry that can help not only your dog, but you as well. It's a win-win situation when two-legged family members and four-legged can share the same health benefits of a product! I have numbered them, but the list is not in numerical importance. Plus, I will have each item connected to a link. This link will give you more information on that specific item if you would like to learn more. Some of these items have a whole plethora of health benefits!

Here they are:

1. Organic Raw Honey can help with wound recovery, digestions, immune support, allergies and skin issues. Plus it tastes really good and has an abundance of vitamins, minerals, is anti-microbial, anti-fungal.... you get the point.
2. Aloe Vera: I don't have a link to this product, but I should! When I talk about Aloe Vera, I'm not talking about the bright green (or blue) stuff that comes from Walgreens. I'm talking about the plant. The stuff that is 100% pure. You can use the inner gel of this plant to help relieve skin irritations or cuts. A tiny bit of Aloe Juice can also help relieve constipation when ingested.
3. Lavender Essential Oil: Before applying essential oils, they should always be diluted accordingly... and even more diluted for canines. Essential oils should also be canine safe and therapeutic grade. Some oils that can be used on humans cannot be used on dogs. Lavender oil is generally regarded as one of the super safe oils and can be diffused or applied topically to calm a nervous dog. To apply topically, dilute accordingly and massage behind the dog's neck and ears. You can concoct your own linen spray to spray down your dog's bedding (or bandana). Last, use lavender oil as a flea repellent by mixing vinegar, water and a couple drops of lavender. Spray on your dog before going outside.
4. Stinging Nettle: Unless you are crazy like me and grow your own stinging nettles, it's best to just buy the tea at your local natural grocer. Or buy online. Harvesting stinging nettles can be quite tricky. BUT, stinging nettles is considered one of the "super foods" that is jam packed full of nutrients and has a natural anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory. Used as a rinse, it can help with itchy, dry skin and bug bites.
5. Coconut Oil is again, one of those use for anything and everything products. It can help with digestion, oral health, balance insulin, immune support, promote a healthy skin and coat... the list goes on and on. 
6. Apple Cider Vinegar can be used for cooling hot spots and rashes, it repels fleas and ticks, promotes a healthy circulation, can be used as a natural ear cleaner, supports a healthy urinary tract and digestion. 

Always remember to do your research on the proper way to use these products and don't over do it! A little goes a long way in canine (and human) health. Moderation is key. Having these products on hand and promoting a healthy diet with exercise is a great way to minimize the trips to the vet and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.