If your dog has recently been diagnosed with a kidney infection, has had kidney infections in the past, or displays such symptoms as: frequent urination and increased drinking, then your dog may benefit from certain herbal treatments for kidney disease.
Herbalist, Greg Tilford, recently stated in an article entitled, “Herbs For Kidney Disease,” published in the November 2011 edition of Dogs Naturally Magazine, that the purpose of herbal support for kidney disease is to increase the blood flow to the kidney. He believes that kidneys are highly dependant upon their oxygen supply, which can be thrown out of sync quite easily by poor circulation.
Greg recommends a recipe including five herbs, all of which support kidney health and blood circulation. Dandelion leaf (increases urine flow), Marshmallow (decreases inflammation), Echinacea (anti-bacterial agent), Ginkgo (improves blood vessel function in the kidneys and helps reduce inflammation in the urinary tract), and Hawthorn (improves renal circulation) may be combined in equal parts and administered by ¼ teaspoon, for dogs weighing 20 pounds, twice daily separately from meals. It is also important to make sure that your dog has plenty of fresh drinking water as well.
Information provided by, “Herbs For Kidney Disease,” Dogs Naturally on November 9, 2011, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com .
Written by Holly Sharpe, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC.