Can Aloe Vera be Beneficial for Your Dog?

Those who have done any sort of reading about holistic remedies for humans have probably heard about the healing power of Aloe Vera. The plant almost deserves to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize! Topically, the plant heals burns, reduces or eliminates skin conditions like eczema, and it even moisturizes. Internally, there have been claims of improved digestion, stomach flora being balanced, and acid reflux eliminated. It even acts as an anti-inflammatory for swelling and pain. The question is, though, is it just as beneficial for dogs as it is for you?

Aloe Vera for External Use

Externally, you can absolutely use Aloe Vera to treat pet wounds, heal rashes, or just improve your pup’s coat. In fact, you can use it for flea bites and allergic reactions as well. Since some topical Aloe Vera treatments for humans are not safe for consumption, do not put these on your pet’s skin. There is a very good chance that the dog will try to lick it off, even if it tastes bad.

Some Aloe Vera products are also full of sugar, which you do not want your dog consuming. Instead, look for doggie shampoos and conditioners that list Aloe Vera as a major ingredient. Your best bet is to get an organic formula because many dog products are low quality and might put a tiny bit of Aloe Vera in their solution just to say that they did. In the end, the chemicals contained in those cheap shampoos outweigh any benefits that the Aloe Vera offers.

Aloe Vera for Internal Use

Although there is no official scientific evidence that Aloe Vera can benefit dogs, many can attest to its healing properties for their pets. It seems to have all of the same benefits for dogs as it does for humans. Aloe Vera lines the intestinal track and reduces inflammation. It also aids in digestion, boosts the immune system, and helps relieve arthritis and joint pain. However, in excess, Aloe Vera can also cause your dog to have diarrhea. It has been suggested that you should only give your dog one tablespoon per 5kg of your dog’s weight. To be safe, you can even cut that dose in half and then see how your dog handles it first. If all is well, you can increase the dosage to the recommended amount.

Many companies sell Aloe Vera juice, and many of the cheap products contain sugar as well as food preservatives. You should avoid these at all costs. The safe bet is to only give your dog Aloe Vera that you too would consume yourself. Dogs have a different kind of digestive system than we do, but if you can consume a product, then the chances of your dog being able to consume it are much higher.