Question:
Your warning about essential oils did not go far enough. Pet owners must be fully aware of the effects of any oil they use on their pets, its dosage and its potential side effects.I use a number of home remedies to keep my 11-year-old chocolate lab healthy. I learned that tea tree oil could be used as a flea repellent and decided to try it on my loyal, faithful and trusting companion, who was plagued with particularly resilient fleas. I put five to eight drops onto his fur around his neck (so he could not digest it) and rubbed it in. To my horror, when I woke up the following morning, my beloved pet was partially paralyzed! It took three days for him to gain full mobility. It was shortly after that point where he came to show his age, too.The guilt I carry continues through today as I look at him and realize his complete reliance on my ability to prevent harm to him. I understood at that moment my serious obligation to his health. I now thoroughly investigate any new ideas and take steps very slowly and grad
C.W., Highland, NY Nov 19, 2006
Answer:
Your words of warning are appreciated. Extreme caution is called for when using any medication, be it a natural herbal product, essential oil or synthetic prescription drug.As I advise, most essential oils must be diluted in five to 20 times the initial volume in a carrier oil, like almond oil.When properly administered, tea tree oil is good for fungal and other skin conditions. I do not recommend it as a flea-and-insect repellent. Make your own by soaking a sliced lemon in a 1/4 pint of boiling water, allowing it to cool overnight, and mashing the peel to extract the oils. Drain and store the raw lemon juice (organically grown only) in the fridge. Apply by rubbing a rag or sponge soaked in the juice lightly over the dog's back, sides and legs. Do not allow your dog to lick it.
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