Miracle munchies: Natural pet remedies

MANUKA HONEY
Benefits: For Manuka honey to be truly effective, it needs to be raw, organic, and have a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). Purported to eradicate over 250 strains of bacteria, it gives the honey extraordinary healing ability. For medicinal purposes, a rating of UMF 10 or higher is recommended.

Internal: Rich in nutrients like vitamins A and B, calcium and magnesium, Manuka honey can improve your pet’s general health. It's also said to be helpful in treating gastrointestinalproblems like gastritis and colitis. Give one tablespoon daily for large dogs, and one teaspoon for small dogs. 

External: Due to its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey can be applied topically to minor wounds, such as scratches, small cuts, and burns. “Honey acts as a powerful poultice, and draws out fluid and inflammation in a wound. It also accelerates wound repair times by feeding and protecting new cells,” explains Dr Bruce Syme, founder of Vets All Natural P/L.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Benefits: "Apple cider vinegar can be used topically to kill bacteria or yeast infections, prevent ear infections, and as a general tonic," says Dr Syme. It also purportedly repels ticks and fleas. 

Internal: It helps to maintain the acidalkaline balance of your furkid’s body. Add half a teaspoon (for every 10kg of body weight) to your dog’s meals. 

External: For sores and open wounds, mix the vinegar with water in a one-to-one ratio and spray on the affected area. Allow the area to dry. Applying a few drops to the ears post-grooming can help to prevent infections. Apple cider vinegar is also said to be a natural bug repellent, so spray onto Fido’s skin after weekly baths and before going on walks to prevent ticks and fleas from clinging to your pooch.

For more information on our top five natural remedies, flip to Pet Bowl of our Dec15-Jan16 issue!