Long before prescription drugs were made at factories and veterinarians even existed, people were using herbs and other items from their garden to help treat common pet ailments (and they are surprisingly effective as well).  Whether you’re interested in treating joint pain in your pet or looking to cure common ear troubles, here is a quick look at how the bounty of your garden can help treat a variety of health issues that your dog may eventually experience.

Arthritic help can be found in your garden

One of the easiest remedies for dog arthritis is using vitamin C supplements, which can be procured from your garden (other than growing oranges of course). By growing Acerola, the tropical fruit bearing shrub (sometimes a small tree), which is rich in vitamin C and is a natural antihistamine, you’re getting copious amounts of a plant that can be used for your pet.  Vitamin C helps slow joint degeneration and can even help promote the regeneration of new tissue.  Since most dog food doesn’t contain that much Vitamin C, adding this supplement to your dog’s diet can do wonders.

Other herbs to the rescue

If growing a shrub or tree seems like too daunting of a task, growing simple herbs can also provide remedies for your pets. Ginger is a great herb to grow for dogs.  It helps settle the stomach and can be smeared on a dog treat in a pinch.  Additionally, oregano (the oil of the plant that is) is a natural antibiotic that both dogs and humans can use.  And if you have carrots, shredded carrots mixed with lime juice and mint is an effective doggy breath freshener.

More than providing foodstuffs for a great salad, your garden should always be regarded as a place of healing for your animals.