This just for a guideline please check with your vet first!!  Acidophilus
Acidophilus is a powdered form of a bacteria called 'lactobacillus.' It is used when the intestines have been compromised by illness, stress, or the use of medications like antibiotics. In these situations, the normal 'friendly' bacteria which help in digestion often die and are replaced by bacteria which tend to cause problems such as increased intestinal gas and diarrhea. The lactobacillus bacteria are used to help prevent overgrowth of these undesirable bacteria, and allow the 'friendly' bacteria to recover their normal numbers.
AlfalfaAlfalfa (Medicago sativa) sprouts supply protein, vitamins A, B (folate), C, E, and K; minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc; as well as carotene and chlorophyll. Alfalfa is a nutritional herb which is said to be helpful to the kidney. It may also stimulate the immune system. Alfalfa contains a natural coumarin which is an anticoagulant and decreases platelet aggregation. This increases the risk of bleeding. | Bach's Flower Remedies | | Dr. Edward Bach, a physician in England, spent the latter portion of his life (the 1930's) studying flower essences. He was interested in how the state of mind could influence natural resistance to disease. He developed 38 Bach flower remedies which are said to influence the psychoemotional state. In alternative veterinary medicine, these flower essences are used singly or in combination to treat various behavior problems including anxiety, or when the animal's mental condition needs to be changed. The essences are generally given by placing several drops of the essence into the drinking water. Brewer's Yeast
Yeast are microscopic fungi, single-cell organisms of the plant kingdom. Various species are abundant throughout the environment. Brewer's yeast contains essential B vitamins including biotin, minerals including zinc, and high quality proteins. These assist in the control of shedding and promote a healthy skin and hair coat. Brewer's yeast has been fed to pets to control fleas as it seems to create an odor from the inside out that is unpleasant to fleas. This has not been confirmed through research. It has also been said the brewer's yeast will stimulate the immune system.
Chromium
Chromium is a trace element and an essential cofactor for the hormone insulin which regulates the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Supplementation of chromium picolinate may aid body fat loss, retain and build lean body mass, lower elevated blood sugar, and reduce blood cholesterol levels. Chromium's effect on animals is being studied both for weight loss and regulation of glucose in diabetics. Chromium may be helpful in diabetic animals (especially cats) that are difficult to regulate on insulin. In humans with diabetes mellitus, chromium has increased insulin sensitivity, reduced insulin requirements, and decreased the need for some diabetic medications. Copper
Function of copper Copper is necessary for a number of body processes including the formation of collagen, bone and connective tissue, the absorption of iron, the development and maturation of red blood cells, the function as an antioxidant, and the development of pigment in hair. Dietary sources of copper Copper is found in liver, fish, whole grains, and legumes. Most quality commercial dog foods are supplemented with copper to assure adequate intake. Daily copper requirements Dogs should receive 3.3 mg of copper daily for every pound of dog food they eat (on a dry matter basis). The copper should be in a form other than copper oxide. Copper absorption Copper is absorbed in the stomach and small intestine, and stored in the liver, kidneys, and brain. A number of substances can decrease the absorption of copper. These include high levels of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), increased levels of calcium, zinc, iron, and sulfur, and some toxic metals such as cadmium, silver, or lead. Zinc supplementation is actually used as a therapy in dogs with copper storage disease (a liver disease). Copper deficiency Copper deficiencies are rare in dogs and cats. In copper deficiency, an anemia can develop, and there may be abnormalities in bone development. Copper toxicity A specific problem in copper storage can result in some dogs showing symptoms of copper toxicity. Bedlington Terriers and West Highland White Terriers have been shown to have this hereditary disorder, which causes copper to accumulate in the liver and results in inflammation of the liver (hepatitis). Doberman Pinschers can also develop hepatitis with an associated accumulation of copper in the liver. The typical symptoms of toxic levels of copper in the liver include lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, and weight loss. Echinacea
Echinacea is also known as the purple coneflower. Three of the nine species are used medicinally. They are E. angustifolia, E. purpurea, and E. pallida. The first two are most widely used. Echinacea has been used in humans to treat general infections and wounds, colds/flu, candidiasis, strep throat, staph infections, urinary infections, allergies, and toothaches. The active ingredient in echinacea has not yet been identified. It is suspected to work by inhibiting viral and bacterial breakdown of the body's cell walls which is a necessary step before the bacteria and virusess can replicate in the body. It may also slow the growth of some types of tumors. Echinacea is used in fresh root, dried, tincture, tea, or capsule forms. Doses vary if the product is used at a tonic dose, maintenance dose, protective dose, or full course. Use is often discontinued after a maximum of 6-8 weeks since the immune-promoting impact may fade. Therapy may be started again at a later date. A scratchy throat may show up after extended use in humans. | | Epsom Salts
Epsom salts have been used to treat abscessed nail beds and paws that are itchy due to allergies. Use 1/2 cup of epsom salts per 1 gallon of water. Soak the affected paw(s) for 5-10 minutes, 2-4 times a day. It will help 'draw out' the infection in case of a nail bed abscess. It will also give the pet temporary relief from the itchy feet secondary to allergies. Do not allow pets to drink an epsom salt solution since it can cause diarrhea. | | Essiac Tea
Essiac tea is a combination of various herbs which has been used by some people as a 'natural' cancer treatment. To date, no well-controlled scientific studies have been performed to determine its effectiveness in either people or animals. The herbs included in the formula include burdock root, sheep sorrel, Turkish rhubarb root, slippery elm bark, and sometimes red clover, kelp, watercress, or blessed thistle. There are several manufacturers of this product, which is much more common in Canada than in the United States. In humans, it is most commonly used as an adjunct to conventional cancer therapy.
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