No doubt you’re always on the lookout for ways to make your little pooch’s life as happy as can be. Try Bach Flower Remedies, says Christine McPherson

Many dedicated dog owners are turning to Bach Flower Remedies to help their animals live a healthier, happier life. And, according to authors Martin J. Scott and Gael Mariani, many are discovering that helping dogs with Bach remedies is much more satisfying than helping humans.

In 1998, Martin and Gael founded the first organisation to specifically research and explore the ways that flower remedies could benefit animals: the Society for Animal Flower Essence Research (SAFER). Now they have published Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs in a bid to share their knowledge and experience with other pet owners.

But, they point out, these remedies are already being used across the world by many vets, doctors and other healthcare professionals. In Cuba, the remedies are now integrated into the national health system.

Martin and Gail firmly believe that, psychologically, dogs are far healthier than most of us humans. And for that reason, man’s best friend seems to respond faster and better to the remedies, allowing dogs to be treated for a range of problems including the effects of trauma and abuse, fear and anxiety, and even stress.

Canine stress can, they say, show up in a number of ways:

  • Restless behaviour

  • Scratching and fur pulling

  • Tension in muscles

  • Lying around with little energy

  • Excessive barking

  • Excessive panting, when not thirsty

  • Destructiveness in the home

  • Tendency to suffer from allergies

  • Poor coat condition

  • Digestive or bowel problems

And dogs, it seems, can be as badly affected by bereavement as humans. Martin and Gail explain: “Many dogs will go into a state of deep depression after losing a friend (either an owner or another dog).” As for us, most people who have had dogs are all too familiar with the sense of loss when one dies. Certain Bach remedies are very important in helping ease the pain of pet loss.

Studying the 38 remedies in turn, the authors explain each one from first a human and then a canine perspective. They add: “Anyone who’s ever helped a dog with Bach remedies can testify to the great satisfaction it brings to watch them changing, softening, losing their fear, regaining trust, learning to leave behind a difficult past, reclaiming their natural state of contentedness and vitality.”

Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs by Martin J. Scott and Gael Mariani is published by www.findhornpress.com