Natural alternatives to health and wellness for you and your pets can be scary. Most people don't know how to use natural alternatives. I was watching Dr. Oz's TV show the other day, and he said the number one item that should be in everyone's medicine cabinet is Melaleuca (Tea Tree); otherwise known as tea tree oil. It's not just for people! Now that we know we should have it; what do we do with it?
As a wellness consultant for Melaleuca products for 14 years, I am very familiar with the benefits associated with tea tree oil and I want to provide The American Dog's readers with ways they can utilize tea tree oil to prevent running up expensive vet bills. I talked about Melaleuca oil a year ago in the summer 2009 issue, but it's important that you know how to dilute the oil so it is not caustic to your pet's skin. It is better to dilute the Melaleuca oil more than less, so it doesn't irritate the skin.
Melaleuca oil (tea tree oil): to dilute Melaleuca oil for use on pets, any carrier oil can be used, but Jojoba oil is a great choice when applying it to their coat or skin. Or dilute with Olive oil, which is a heavier oil but has anti-fungal properties, and also can be used as an antiseptic wash.
Puppies: 2 drops of melaleuca oil to every teaspoon of carrier oil; apply 2-3 times a day.
Small to Medium Dogs: Mix 2-3 drops to every teaspoon of carrier oil and apply 2-3 times a day until healed. Large Dogs: Mix 3-4 drops of Melaleuca oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Apply 2-3 times each day until healed. Watch for sensitive skin reactions; if you notice any irritation, discontinue use and consult with your veterinarian. So, here is the list of ways to use this natural wonder!
ABSCESS: Dab with a strong antiseptic mix of 5-10 drops of Melaleuca oil in one teaspoon of carrier oil. Prevent your pet from licking the area for at least 30 minutes after applying. When the abscess bursts, allow it to drain and bathe with the antiseptic wash. ARTHRITIS: to help relieve pain from joint inflammation, combine 1-2 drops of Melaleuca oil with one teaspoon of Jojoba oil and very gently massage the arthritic area. You can follow with a low heat heating pad, but watch for burns.
COAT CARE: For matting, try wetting the matted hair with a mixture of 1 drop of Melaleuca oil and a half teaspoon of carrier oil. Rub it in to the matted fur a little at a time, starting at the top with a comb and working your way down. If you nick the skin while trimming matted fur, use the antiseptic wash to prevent infection.
PEST-FREE FUR: In between bathing your dog, you can mix 3-5 drops of melaleuca oil in 1 1/2 cups of a carrier oil. Sprinkle a few drops all over the coat (especially around the neck) and comb through the fur. Another way to apply is to put the oil on a sponge and rub over the dog's coat. It's very important to avoid the eyes, (store in a dark glass bottle in a cool place).
DERMATITIS: Does your pet have flaky skin, rashes, itchiness? Make sure your dog has not been exposed to spray polishes, air fresheners, or cleaning products, which may be the cause of the problem. Using the antiseptic wash will help if used 2-3 times a day until the condition improves.
DAMAGED DEW CLAWS: Use the antiseptic wash. If the condition is severe, see your vet.
EARS: Mix 1-2 drops of Melaleuca oil with two teaspoons of olive oil. Apply a couple of drops (slightly warmed) with a dropper to each ear. Do not put directly inside the ear. Massage the ears after medicating.
HOT SPOTS: Use diluted Melaleuca oil often to reduce the pain, prevent infection, and promote healing (see the recommended amount for size of dog listed above).
INSECT BITES & STINGS: To remove the stinger from your dog's skin, carefully tweeze it out. Apply diluted melaleuca oil with a with cotton swab to relieve pain and neutralize the venom (see the recommended amount for size of dog listed above).
If your dog doesn't respond to the treatment, or she/he appears to be getting worse, discontinue use and please contact your veterinarian. Cindy Nelson has been using and recommending Melaleuca products for over 14 years and conducts research for international webinars on toxic products, laws and prevention. If you are interested in purchasing the only Australian Government certified Melaleuca oil (T36-C5 or T40-C3), or safer, green products from Melaleuca Inc., call Cindy directly (303) 919-2441 or any one else you know who represents Melaleuca, Inc. Melaleuca oil (Tea Tree oil) varies by manufacturer.
