Dog parents would rather avoid the harsh pharmaceutical drugs prescribed by the vet for conditions that can be treated naturally. Looking to our own natural remedies has led us to some fascinating discoveries about how they can help our canines, too!
After a ruff day, a human may need a little help getting to sleep. For this reason, they’ll take melatonin as a helpful supplement close to bedtime.
In addition to inducing sleep in sapiens, melatonin:
- normalizes cortisol
- regulates blood pressure
- strengthens the immune system
- acts as an antioxidant
The effects of melatonin have been so life-changing for humans that we’ve gone on to explore the amazing benefits of melatonin for man’s best friend.
The benefits of being mellow
Melatonin has been known to improve the conditions of dogs with anxiety, cognitive dysfunction, behavior disorders, blindness, irregular bowel movements, constipation, diarrhea, fungus, and alopecia.
The natural aspects of melatonin for dogs are a huge plus for pet parents. Melatonin supplements help support the body’s natural occurring melatonin.
Melatonin is a neurohormone. It comes from the pineal gland, which regulates your pup’s circadian rhythms. It is secreted at its full force at night. Melatonin levels decline with age, which is one reason disorders can develop.
Linda Aronson, DVM, published a study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association reporting the success in treating the disorders of roughly 80% of her doggy patients that took melatonin.
Is it safe?
Melatonin is generally safe. Some adverse effects may occur if your dog is already taking other medications or supplements. It should not be mixed with Benadryl, for example, or given to a dog who is pregnant. Consult your veterinarian before starting a melatonin regimen. Dogs can take melatonin daily, but it's not something they should have everyday if there's not a specific need for it.
How much melatonin to give your fur-ever friend
Melatonin comes as either a pill or tablet, a chew, or in liquid form. One milligram of melatonin per each 20 pounds your dog weighs is the recommended dose. It takes about half an hour for your pooch to begin to feel its effects.
We all want to see our fur babies thrive. If you determine that melatonin will help your dog with their anxieties and ailments, it’s definitely worth a shot. It may just be the very thing your pup needs to live more comfortably and cuddle more carefree.
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