Pulsatilla or Lachesis for Dogs

Homeopathy Basics

• Homeopathic remedies are prescribed based on two major factors. The first factor is the personality of the patient. Different medications are said to work best for different personality types. The second factor is the ailment itself: Medication is chosen based on the symptoms of the ailment. Although the two factors may point to different medications, homeopathic prescriptions often overlap, with a patient being told that taking the preparation indicated for his personality will alleviate his symptoms even if that preparation is not necessarily indicated for those symptoms. The basic idea is that if an individual takes the preparation indicated for his personality type, the medication will restore balance to the body's systems and thus alleviate most minor ailments.

Homeopathy for Pets

• Because many homeopathic remedies are far older than conventional medications, the use of homeopathy in veterinary care is as established as its use in people. However, the practice of homeopathy in treating people and animals is considered alternative medicine. Thus, many veterinarians are not familiar with the uses and dosages of homeopathic treatments. Often, pet owners interested in using these medicines are on their own.

Pulsatilla

• Pulsatilla is a homeopathic medication derived from the wind flower plant (Pulsatilla Pratensis). According to the traditions of homeopathy, pulsatilla works best in those with an easy-going personality whose moods change quickly. For symptoms, pulsatilla is recommended for those ailments in which a lot of phlegm or mucus is involved, gynecological problems, and aches and pains.

  Pulsatilla is used to treat dogs that have a strong need for attention and may show jealousy of anyone else who is getting the attention they believe should be theirs, according to Dr. Luc De Schepper, M.D. and homeopathic practitioner. Homeopathic practitioners believe that pulsatilla will help to calm these types of dogs and lead to fewer jealous behaviors, according to CanineNaturalCures.com. Other ailments that might be helped with pulsatilla are skin problems and gynecological issues.

Lachesis

• Lachesis is a preparation made from the venom of the South American bushmaster snake. The homeopathic medicinal form of lachesis is extremely diluted. Lachesis is believed to work best in patients who are high-strung and highly sexual. Ailments considered to be treated by lachesis include anything to do with blood, including vein and heart problems, menstrual and gynecological difficulties, and any ailment related to a burning sensation, such as stomach ulcers.

  Lachesis, therefore, is used to treat dogs that suffer from a variety of inflammations and may be used in those whose inflammation is creating hot spots. Pet owners are warned, however, to be sure that their pets do not suffer from multiple ailments, as lachesis may aggravate some diseases. According to homeopathic practitioners, lachesis may also be helpful in preventing and treating epileptic seizures in dogs.

Where to Get Pulsatilla and Lachesis

• Homeopathic remedies such as pulsatilla and lachesis are available in tablet and liquid forms at most health food stores and in some conventional pharmacies. These remedies can also be purchased online, but some research is required to make sure that the product is from a safe and reliable provider.

  Dosage of homeopathic remedies is relatively simple. Start with the lowest possible dose--usually one tablet--and give the remedy three to four times daily. Follow the instructions on the product packaging for delivery. Some remedies are dissolved in the mouth; others can be dissolved in liquid first and delivered that way. Very few homeopathic remedies are swallowed whole.

  If either the chosen remedy or the recommended dose does not work for your dog, consult a homeopathic veterinarian in your area or online for help. Never increase the dosage of a homeopathic preparation past recommended levels, as most homeopathic preparations can become toxic quickly at high doses.