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Bach
Flower Remedies for Dogs
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Bach Flower
Remedies
Catherine O’Driscoll
Dr Edward Bach wrote his book, 'Heal Thyself' in
1931. He was a remarkable and deeply spiritual man who believed that physical
illnesses were merely messages from our bodies, urging us to turn and follow
the wisdom of our Higher Selves.
There are 38 Flower Remedies, developed by Dr Bach with the aim
of raising our vibrations so that we can hear our Spiritual Selves and
fulfil our life purposes. He wrote of the Remedies, "They are able, like
beautiful music or any glorious uplifting thing which gives us inspiration,
to raise our very natures, and bring us nearer to our souls, and by that
very act to bring us peace and relieve our sufferings."
The Bach Flower Remedies were developed for use in humans - but
they also work very well for animals. They can be given directly to the
animal or, in certain circumstances, it can be more helpful to give the
remedy to the owner. This requires some self knowledge and insight, but
is well worth the effort when you see the positive transformation in your
dog. For example, if your dog is timid and fearful, is he mirroring your
own timid and fearful behaviour, or are you perhaps being over-domineering
with him? If so, Dr Bach can help you to transform your relationship into
a loving partnership.
And what better than a beautiful Flower Remedy to help a puppy to
overcome the traumatic loss of his mother and litter mates, or to help
the nervous young pup become a confident, cheerful and peaceful friend?
The puppy or adult dog who dislikes being alone can be greatly helped
by a few drops of Agrimony in his water. This has the power to turn a
restless young pup into a cheerful, carefree and peace-loving companion.
If your pup is a little worrier, following you around to make sure you're
all right, then Bach's Red Chestnut can put his mind at peace.
A timid puppy who rolls on his back and subserviently shows his
tummy to passing dogs can become much more confident if you add Centaury
to his water bowl. A highly strung or hyperactive dog can, when given
Vervain, become calm, wise and tolerant, with an ability to relax.
If your dog is a rescue, he may have been through some traumatic
times in the past. Often this reflects in behaviour. The aggressive, angry,
possessive dog can be greatly helped to behave by the addition of Holly
in his water bowl, and the depressed and homesick rescue, pining for his
previous owners, will greatly benefit from Honeysuckle. If the dog has
suffered long under adverse conditions, if his vitality has been sapped
and he tires easily, Olive can restore peace of mind, vitality and interest
in life.
The powerful dog who bullies and dominates those weaker than himself
can become a loving and wise Alpha dog if Vine is added to his water,
and the sensitive dog he bullies, if given Walnut, will be less inclined
to let the bully upset him.
Hornbeams gives strength to the dog who has been through surgery,
or who feels weary in mind and body, giving him courage to face the future.
Larch is for the dog who has no self-confidence, or who is reluctant to
take part in obedience trials or shine in the show ring. Larch gives a
boost to self-esteem.
We all know dogs who are frightened of thunder or fireworks, or
who don't like men, or who jump and scurry back to 'mummy' if there is
a sudden noise. These dogs can, with the addition of Mimulus, develop
a quiet courage and enjoy life much more without those irrational fears.
If the dog becomes fixated on something that happened - for example,
he heard a loud bang outside and now refuses to go into the garden, then
White Chestnut can help him get the distressing event out of his mind and
carry on with life.
If there's terror in the air - for example, he's been attacked by
another dog or closely missed being run over - Rock Rose will help to
restore strength. If he's had a shock or bad fright, Star of Bethlehem
will neutralise the effect and provide comfort.
Dr Bach's Rescue Remedy is carried in pockets and handbags around
the world - an invaluable remedy used for first aid, emergencies and
stress. This is a composite of five Flower Remedies, and can be dropped
on the tongue if you or your dog have had a shock of any kind, received
sudden bad news, been in an accident, or if there has been a family upset.
You can use up to seven Flower Remedies at a time, so if you're
not sure why your dog is frightened, timid or bad tempered, you can combine
several to achieve results.
Although the Bach Flower Remedies are not primarily designed to
help with physical ailments, they often do. We all know what happens
when we get ourselves in a state. Overwhelmed by pressures and worries,
knots develop in our stomachs or in our shoulders, our eczema gets worse,
our asthma comes on . . . if we can relieve the emotional tensions, the
physical symptoms often disappear.
Bach Flower Remedies can be taken by people and animals of all ages.
There's no danger of an overdose or side effects, and should you choose
the wrong remedy, no harm will ensue. They are not influenced by any other
medicines being taken, neither do they interfere with other medication.
There are many books available
on the Bach Flower Remedies. These can be obtained from any healthshop,
as can the Remedies themselves. General information, details of audio and
video cassettes, a full book list, and information about study courses can
be obtained from:
The Dr
Edward Bach Centre,
Mount Vernon,
Sotwell,
Wallingford,
Oxon
OX10 OPZ,
England.
© Canine Health Concern, PO Box 7533, Perth, PH2
1AD, UK,
reprinted with kind permission from Catherine O'Driscoll
www.canine-health-concern.org.uk.
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Some Bach Flower Remedies
Dr Edward Bach
(pronounced Batch) was
a well respected bacteriologist and homoeopath and had a guiding principle: Treat the
person, not the disease. He discovered thirty-eight remedies which
cover every conceivable mental and emotional state. It was his belief that
unbalanced emotional states causes disease in the body. Although ridiculed
at the time, it is now a popular concept that “Stress” can cause disease.
But Dr Bach went one stage further than the orthodox doctors and developed
a series of remedies to cure the imbalances of emotions which were in turn
causing the disease. He claimed that if these imbalances could cause disease,
then surely the body would heal itself if the emotions were rebalanced?
The essences are in the form of liquids that are either given directly
by mouth, or diluted first and then given orally, or in drinking water.
The remedies are safe
to use, and no side effects are seen.
An especially well known Bach remedy is Rescue Remedy - in fact a mixture
of several different essences which is ideal for any instance of acute
shock or trauma.
The Bach Remedies can be taken
directly from the stock bottle or from the personal dilution bottle by
placing 2 - 4 drops in your animal's feed or water. The Remedies are easy
and convenient to use with varied methods of application that can be selected
to suit an individual's specific needs.
The most common forms of
administering the Remedies are placing them into the animal's food or
water; dropping them directly into the animal's mouth; or rubbing the needed
remedies on one's hands before petting them.
There is no improper or wrong
method of applying the Bach Remedies. It is truly not necessary to be precise
in counting the number of drops in any of the dilution methods. Follow
your own judgement and insights. Remember that you cannot overdose the Remedies
for they are non-toxic.
In all conditions or situations
requiring medical attention, you should consult or discuss this with
your vet.
Agrimonia
Agrimonia eupatoria
For those putting on a brave face when inwardly in turmoil and worried.
Bottling things up, sometimes exploding in anger, unable to express their
feelings when necessary, liking to keep the peace, at much cost to themselves.
They may be restless at night, or suffer throat problems. Brings peace
and an ability to communicate happily.
Aspen
Populus Tremula
For unknown fears, vague
fears and apprehension, perhaps unable to express fears of spirit/psychic/
strange places, etc. Apprehensive of coming events. Shakiness or fluttering
tummy. Very useful for children with fears of dark, also agoraphobia.
Aspen brings relief from these uneasy feelings.
Beech
Fagus Sylvatica
For those very critical and judgemental of others. Often irritated
by people's little habits. Very intolerant and with a fixed outlook, often
bringing rigidity of the body. This essence brings great tolerance and
an ability to view life with a wider perspective.
Centuary
Centaurium Erythraea
Unable to say "no". Often taking on too much and tiring themselves
out. A distorted view of service. Lacking willpower, the weak mind frequently
resulting in a weak body. Folks needing Centaury often lack individuality,
being so influenced by stronger personalities. This essence brings strength
and the ability to say "no" without guilt, when necessary.
Cerato
Ceratostigma Willmottiana
This essence helps those who lack faith in their own judgement and
who seek the opinions of others when decisions are necessary. Unable to
listen to their "inner voice" or intuition. Cerato removes the blockage
between the higher self and the mind, enabling them always to be guided
correctly.
Cherry Plum
Prunus Cerasifera
For fear of losing control of the mind/nervous breakdown. Snappy,
on edge, wanting to scream or be violent, either to self or others. Saying
things completely out of character, but unable to stop oneself. Irrational
behaviour. Many women experience these negative traits during PMT. Characterised
in the acute negative state by wide, staring eyes. Cherry Plum brings calmness,
control and peace.
Chestnut Bud
Aesculus Hippocastanum
The symptoms are repetition of the same mistakes over and over again,
not learning lessons the first time, whether it be life's lessons or
academic ones. Excellent for students who are slow learners, or anyone
failing into the same trap, again and again. Helpful for the mentally
retarded.
Chicory
Cichorium Intybus
Chicory is for folks possessive of those they love, wanting them
near, to cling onto and to love. The "needy mother". A selfish love which
often shows itself as greed, boarding possessions or as liking sympathy
when ill. Can evoke illness to attract attention. The positive aspect is
the ability to give love unconditionally.
Clematis
Clematis Vitalba
Drifting off into daydreams or fantasies of the future, therefore
the mind has lapses of concentration on the earth level, bringing inattentiveness,
poor memory, dizziness, bumping into things or tripping up. Quiet, gentle
people, often more at home "up there". Often appearing deaf and needing
lots of sleep. People working a lot in their imagination often need the
"grounding" this essence brings, e.g. artists and writers.
Crab Apple
Malus Sylvestris
A cleanser, working bodily, mentally and spiritually. Benefiting
any skin complaints. People with a cleanliness fetish, either bodily or
an obsession with housework, etc. In the negative state these folks are
very fussy, easily upset, making mountains out of molehills. This essence
in particular can be applied to the skin as a lotion in a little water
or 10 drops in a warm bath, in addition to being ingested. Crab Apple brings
calmness to this obsessive state.
Elm
Ulmus Campestris
For those folks normally very capable, perhaps with responsible
jobs, large families or dependants to care for. Suddenly overwhelmed
by their responsibilities, overburdened and unable to cope. This is when
Elm is needed, bringing back their strength of mind and ability to cope.
Happily, this essence is only needed short term as it soon restores balance.
Gentian
Gentiana Amarella
For those lacking in faith, whether in themselves or the Creator.
This lack bringing the mental state of becoming disappointed at setbacks.
A known depression. "Doubting Thomas" type, or those never having found
their spiritual being. Gentian brings the ability to see that all things
are working to the right end thereby taking away the dejection
Gorse
Ulex Europoeus
Deep hopelessness, sadness, often suffered by those with long term
illness. If this negative state has taken root there may be dark rings
under the eyes. As Gorse is taken so the darkness will change to light.
Heather
Calluna Vulgaris
The remedy for those talkative folks who hate to be alone. Needing
to keep talking of their own personal problems and illnesses, making poor
listeners, and often pinning others down making "escape" impossible.
As they take this essence they will regain the ability to enjoy their
own company and will start taking a lively interest in others
Holly
Ilex Aquifolium
A strong essence to counteract the strong emotions of envy, jealousy,
suspicion, revenge, hate and anger. As Holly is taken it will open the
heart and flood it with love, in the face of which these strong negative
emotions cannot exist. Can bring about "unconditional" love.
Honeysuckle
Lonicera Caprifolium
For those locked in the past, to happier times perhaps, unable to
keep their minds on today's living; this can bring regrets and sadness.
Excellent for those suffering from homesickness, bereavement, divorce,
or any kind of loss. Use in conjunction with Star of Bethlehem and Walnut,
to help recover quickly from these sad events.
Hornbeam
Carpinus Betulus
For those taking a long time to "come round" when waking, still
tired after a good nights sleep. Usually a kind of mental/boredom tiredness,
the kind you often get after a day spent doing nothing, bringing on a
feeling of procrastination. Do not confuse with Wild Rose. Hornbeam refreshes
the mind.
Impatiens
Impatiens Royalei
For impatience and irritability. Those liking things done very quickly,
perhaps preferring to work alone as slower workers irritate them. Those
needing Impatiens may flush, or flare up and loose their temper easily.
Brings a gentle patience.
Larch
Larix Europea
Brings back confidence in those lacking this quality. Larch is for
those who deep down know they have the ability, but actually lack the
confidence to carry out the task. They admire others achieving that which
they would wish to do but are never jealous. Useful for short term use,
driving tests, exams, etc., but often necessary long term, bringing back
the confidence to live life to the full.
Mimulus
Mimulus Guttatus
For all known fears, fear of lifts, heights, spiders, water, etc.,
fear of anything material. Those needing this essence may be timid, shy,
nervous, sensitive to crowds, loud noises, bright lights; they may stammer
or blush easily. As Mimulus is taken, so they will become courageous and
these negative states will fade away.
Mustard
Sinapsis Arvensis
Mustard dispels gloom or depression, that often feels like a weight
or black cloud overhead. These feelings of despair come, and go for seemingly
no apparent reason. Mustard casts out the clouds bringing back joy and
sunlight.
Oak
Quercus Robur
For those folks who struggle on, never giving in regardless of adversities
or their burdens. Like the mighty oak they possess great strength and
courage. This essence is only needed at the time when they cannot struggle
on any longer. Often their legs ache and a great weariness comes over them.
Luckily, Oak is usually only needed in the short term as it works quickly,
bringing back strength and fortitude.
Olive
Olea Europaea
For tiredness or exhaustion; physical/mental. Useful for convalescence
after an illness, restores strength, or for short term use after a hard
day's digging in the garden etc., put 2 drops in a drink and sip, replenish
if necessary.
Pine
Pinus sylvestris
The essence to alleviate guilt feelings which can be very deep,
often stemming from childhood. Often bringing a sadness and possibly
a lack of self worth. Some folks in the acute negative state will always
be apologising even if they are not at fault. Pine brings relief from
these states.
Red Chestnut
Aesculus carnea
For those always fearing and worrying for others, always fearing
the worst; if one of the family are late home "they must have had an accident".
Often no fear for themselves. As Red Chestnut is taken these negative
fears turn to positive optimism.
Rock Rose
Helianthemum Nummularium
Terror, acute fear or blind panic. Useful for those suffering from
nightmares, panic attacks. Give to the helpers as well as the sufferer
in extremely fearful situations, as strong negative vibrations spread to
those around, hindering their work.
Rock Water
Aqua petra
For folks who punish themselves, often unknowingly. Very hard on
themselves, wishing to set a good example to others, therefore becoming
very rigid. They often deny themselves the smallest luxury, or even necessity,
making martyrs of themselves. Sometimes very rigid in diet, attitudes or
lifestyle. "Sackcloth & ashes" type. The tension this causes will ease
as this essence is taken.
Scleranthus
Scleranthus Annuss
Unable to choose between two things. Indecision. Weighing things
up they will urn & ah, taking a long time to reach a decision. All
of this has to do with balance, so in the negative state can cause stumbling,
shakiness, vertigo, mood swings, etc. This essence brings an inner balance
and a decisive character.
Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum Umbellatum
THE essence for shock. Releases and dissolves the effect of any
kind of shock or trauma, whether immediate or in the past. It is a recognised
fact that shock can kill so if this essence can he given immediately it
will help to take away the numbing effect thus assisting the body to carry
on with its own self healing unhampered. This does not replace medical assistance,
which should always be called for, but enhances it.
Sweet Chestnut
Castanea Sativa
Absolute and utter despair, no way out, complete hopelessness, back
against the wall, "the dark night of the soul". All terms used to describe
this negative emotion These feelings of desolation may also be accompanied
by weariness or feeling trapped, perhaps in a tunnel; or feelings of complete
isolation from the rest of mankind. Sweet Chestnut will return you to the
joy of life once again.
Vervain
Verbena officinalis
For those folks who over strive. Perfectionists who like things
done properly, but fast. often workaholics, they can be fanatical and
over enthusiastic in their views, wanting to change the world or the way
people think. In their enthusiasm, they are inclined to ram their own opinions
down people's throats, not having learned that good is never achieved by
force. This causes much tension, which is eased by taking this essence until
this lesson is learned.
Vine
Vitis Vinifera
When in the negative state, these very strong minded people will
ride roughshod over the opinions, thoughts and feelings of others, completely
oblivious to the fact that they are "commanding" in the wrong way. They
will intimidate others weaker than themselves, often without realising.
They will not usually argue as they KNOW they are right and expect everyone
to go along with them. The positive state, created as Vine is taken, is
that of great leadership capabilities
Walnut
Juglans Regia
These gentle, sensitive souls can often become negative, a state
in which they acutely feel the need to withdraw into their own space, needing
to distance themselves from others; perhaps feeling somewhat aloof and
slightly superior to their fellow man. Very proud and upright people, these
negative emotions bring a sense of loneliness. The transformation brought
about is the ability to socialise easily and to share their integrity,
wisdom and knowledge with others as their sense of separateness dissolves.
Water Violet
Hottonia Palustris
These gentle, sensitive souls can often become negative, a state
in which they acutely feel the need to withdraw into their own space, needing
to distance themselves from others; perhaps feeling somewhat aloof and
slightly superior to their fellow man. Very proud and upright people, these
negative emotions bring a sense of loneliness. The transformation brought
about is the ability to socialise easily and to share their integrity,
wisdom and knowledge with others as their sense of separateness dissolves.
White Chestnut
Aesculus Hippocastanum
To be taken at those times when our thoughts are taking over our
life, preventing concentration on little else. Like a hamster on a wheel,
the same worries will buzz around and around in the head and if we try
to think of something else it will be to no avail, as the same thought
will shortly return to pester us. White Chestnut calms the mind, bringing
peace. Can be useful to help sleep; see also Agrimony.
Wild Oat
Bromus Asper
For those unable to see their true path in life, wishing to find
the vocation right for them. Each person is put on earth to serve a Divine
purpose; something which will come easily and naturally to them and which
they will enjoy doing above all else. This essence will help them to see
the right path.
Wild Rose
Rosa Canina
Apathy, boredom and resignation are the key words when in the negative
Wild Rose state. Most of us, at some time, will experience a loss of enthusiasm
even for the things we usually enjoy doing. This is due to an apathetic
resignation which can bring with it a feeling of tiredness. Many experience
this during long term illness, as they are often told to resign themselves
to the fact they may never be well. Wild Rose will bring back joy in life
whatever the circumstances.
Willow
Salix Vitellina
When life seems hard and we take a lot of knocks it is easy to become
bitter or resentful of others who may seem to have an easier life. This
essence is for those who bear grudges, perhaps to be beard muttering "It's
not fair", feeling that they have been given a raw deal. Sometimes they
develop a down-turned mouth along with their cynicism. Willow brings a
healthy optimism.
Emergency Essence
A Combination of Five Bach Flower Remedies
Rock Rose, Impatiens,
Clematis, Star of Bethlehem, Cherry Plum
A combination of 5 Bach
Flower Remedies giving a very swift stabiliser to traumatic or fearful
situations, extreme conditions, accidents, etc. Also useful to take before
exams, driving tests, visits to dentist, etc. Take 4 drops in a drink
and sip, replenish as needed. In emergency situations take 4 drops on
the tongue, repeat until stabilised and calm. In cases of fainting, rub
the drops on lips, temple, inner wrists and other pulse spots, keep repeating
until consciousness regained.Emergency Essence in no way replaces medical
attention, which should always be summoned in emergency; rather it releases
and dissolves the effects of shock, fear or trauma, thus enabling the
body's own self heal ing process to take effect quicker.
Also available as a cream
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The above information is simply informational.
It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist
you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian
for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.